Did you have a good day?

True confession: I hate this question. What even is a “good day”?

Yet, I’m guilty of asking it.

When I am asked this question, I struggle to know how to answer it most days. Maybe you do too?

Most days have good, bad, and in-between moments. This question seeks a definitive answer.

I can’t remember a recent day that was completely “good” or “bad.” How do you even define those moments? A tasty latte is good, but “latte good” doesn’t compare to time spent visiting a best friend. A speeding ticket may qualify as “bad,” but it’s not broken relationship bad.

Why do we even feel like our days need to be qualified as “good” or “bad”?

Good Day vs Healthy Perspective

Regardless, I can think of days where I’ve maintained a better (or worse) perspective.

Our perspectives impact our attitude, heart, and work ethic. I have a sweet little book called Daily Truth on my desk at work. It points me toward scripture for various circumstances and gives me a healthy, Truth-based perspective.

A healthy perspective is not a “Pollyanna” way of thinking. It’s not a quick dose of positive thinking.

A healthy perspective is knowing:

• Your identity in Christ.
• Who God is.
• What matters for eternity.

This eternal perspective equips believers to better align thoughts and actions with God’s Will. When I know who I am, who I am working for, and why, my actions are more likely aligned with my purpose. Let’s be honest: a perspective that allows us to function within our purpose makes for a “good” day.

Let’s consider how perspective impacted a situation I encountered. People were spreading lies about me, disparaging my character and integrity.

Goodness, that was tough. I had days when my perspective was not healthy. I let their words impact my self-perception. I questioned my identity. Instead of leading confidently in my God-given calling, I doubted every decision and interaction.

Perspective and Scripture

After prayer and good counsel, I realigned my perspective to God’s Word, but it was challenging. I had to immerse myself in scripture, meditate on God’s Word, and remind myself of the Truth. I reminded myself who God says I am:

God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

2 Timothy 1:7, ESV

Then, I remembered God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. While my finite understanding may not fully comprehend my circumstances, God’s plans are always good.

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28, ESV

Finally, I found a perspective that looked beyond temporary struggles and reflected Truth. The struggles and frustrations on this Earth are minor compared to the eternal glory to come.

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Colossians 3:2-4, ESV

Building a Healthy Perspective

Practically, how do we shift to an eternal perspective? Well, if you’ve been around Proverbs3Three very long, you probably know my #1 suggestion: Bible study! Of course, suggestion #2 is not far behind: prayer! By spending time at Jesus’ feet and filling our minds with Truth, our perspective will change. Change really is that simple!

If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

Jeremiah 29:13, NLT

What about you? Did you have a good day? Maybe. You probably had some good things happen. You may have had some terrible things happen. But, more importantly, how was your perspective? Were you able to filter things through God’s Truth? An eternal perspective grounded in Truth makes challenges easier to handle. We can tolerate them not because of some positive thinking, but because we know Truth. We know the eternal God who calls us to a spirit of power and love. We know the eternal God who has good plans for us.

As you read these words, maybe scripture has come to mind for you? What scripture gives you a healthy perspective? Share it in the comments, so we can all grow a healthy, Christ-centered perspective.