Faith Is the Answer

In the first section of the book, Smiley Blanton opens with a discussion of the power of an invisible force, a force that can change tangible circumstances and realities, the force of faith. Norman Vincent Peale builds upon this introduction by explaining more about the Bible verse, 'as a man think in his heart, so is he.' He talks about the implications this has for taping the hidden, often overlooked resources of the subconscious mind. Dr. Peale notes, 'the unconscious can only send back what was first sent down.' In the third chapter, Smile Blanton tells how to overcome fear, worry, and anxiety. Dr. Peale reminds us that when we get our minds on God, we get our minds off our selves and as a result our confidence in Him provides a release from the negative emotions that try to hold us bound. As one submits to God’s care his or her future, the assurance comes that God knows what is best and His will be accomplished as it is accepted by faith. We’re encouraged to saturate our minds with the thought that God can be trusted with our futures, that He has our best interest in mind. 'The relaxed man is the powerful man,' Dr. Peale tells us. Such a person has confidence in God, not self. He is not bound by rigidity. He is flexible for the inevitable changes life brings. Similarly the next section goes on to talk about self-criticism, failure, and success. We’re reminded that change is always occurring. The insight is given that the Bible does not urge us to 'try harder' but to 'believe.' The rest of the book deals with other challenges one faces in life.