According to Wikipedia optimism is “an attitude reflecting a belief or hope that the outcome of some specific endeavor, or outcomes in general, will be positive, favorable, and desirable”. Most of the psalms were written by David. David was a shepherd boy in the city of Bethlehem. David played music on his harp for King Saul. David was the young boy who killed Goliath. Because of Saul’s disobedience God took the kingship from his family. David was chosen by God to be the next king and was anointed by Samuel. When Saul heard this he was not happy. Many times he tried to kill David, but failed.
This is a short list of some of the Psalms David wrote while being chased by Saul. Psalms 11, Psalms 34, Psalms 52, Psalms 57, and Psalms 59. In Psalms 11 we see David’s optimism in verses 1 and 4, here they are, 1 “In the LORD I take refuge; how can you say to my soul, “flee like a bird to your mountain”, 4 “The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD’s throne is in Heaven; his eyes see, his eyelids test the children of man”. In Psalms 34 we see David’s optimism in verses 1,2 and 3. 1 “I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” 2 “My soul makes it boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad”. 3 “Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together”! In Psalms 57 we see David’s optimism yet again in verses 9 and 10. 9 “I will give thanks to you, O LORD, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations.” 10 “For your steadfast love is great to the Heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.”
Here is a short list of Psalms David wrote while being chased by his enemies. Psalms 3 and Psalms 35. Psalms 3:3 “But you, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head”. Psalms 35:9 “Then my soul will rejoice in the LORD, exulting in his salvation”.
In Psalms 51 David is asking God for repentance for what he did with Bathsheba. Psalms 51:1-3, 1 “Have mercy on me ,O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy 2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin! 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me”. David is optimistic that God will forgive him. God will forgive David and give him a second chance.