My positive thinking lacks power.

Every day begins in much the same way. My alarm sounds- far too early for my liking. Drowsily, I roll over, hit snooze repeatedly until I can no longer delay the inevitable. Reluctantly, I crawl out of bed and stumble around my room attempting to prepare for the day. Despite the sluggish beginnings, I manage to make it through most days with at least a minimal amount of productivity. I tend to assume that a hot shower and a few cups of coffee are all I need to get through the day. After all, at times, I can be motivated, determined, and even self-reliant. All it truly takes to survive life is gritty determination and a bit of good luck, right?

Somehow, despite evidence to the contrary, this is how I live on a daily basis.
In America, home of the self-esteem paradigm, individuals are taught from infancy that they are, to quote Barney the purple dinosaur, “Super-dee-duper”. According to this school of thought, when one believes in himself, anything is achievable. An individual can overwork herself to the top of the corporate ladder, dribble his way to Final Four in basketball, starve herself into a modeling career, or strain their vocal chords into the Top Forty charts, with just the right amount of charm, practice, and of course, a positive self-image. It was once noted that Americans are: “The most positive underachievers in the world”.

With such mindsets prevalent in society, it is easy to lose sight of the truth. In the movie Miracle team USA’s coach presents the self-esteem crushing truth to the members of his hockey team: “Do you think you can win on talent alone? You can’t, because you’re not that talented.” It is often said that the truth hurts, and this case is no exception. No one is talented enough to get through life based on their own good merits. While this is contrary to the prevailing self-esteem philosophy, this idea brings about a new question. What is behind an individual’s success?
Jesus summed it up best when stated, “Without me, you can do nothing”. No mention is given of self- esteem or the power of positive thinking. Somehow, this verse is lost on a self-esteem obsessed culture.

Contrary to popular opinion, life is worth nothing based on one’s own merits. Abilities, skills, and intelligence are all gifts from God- and ones which are not to be taken for granted. While it is far more self-gratifying to allow back-patting and accolades for personal accomplishments, it is vital to remember the reason for success. Christ- the giver of life. Without Christ, it is impossible to take another breath. Without breath, there is no life. Consequently, without breath, it is to accomplish anything.

Although Christ is the sole reason for survival upon the earth, it is far too easy to ignore His power. The win in the big game, the much desired promotion, and the 4.0 GPA were not products of superior skill or intellect. They were gifts granted by God. How many days pass where no thanks is given to God, nor prayers petitioning his guidance and direction? How often is credit taken by an individual when it is due to God?

As I roll over and opt for the snooze function of my alarm tomorrow, I must remember to seek God’s strength to carry me through the day. I lack sufficient talented to survive the day on my own. My positive thinking lacks power.