It's great to be able to share with you this message, as we wrap up our "Be Positive" series.
Over the last few weeks,
we've looked at what it looks like to have a more positive outlook, even when life feels heavy.
We’ve explored how to change our focus and find positivity in the middle of our problems.
Today, we're taking it one step further.
We're going to talk about how we can be a source of positivity for others.
Our message today is called "Spreading Positivity to Others," and it's based on this simple truth:
positivity is contagious.
Think about it—when you're around someone who is joyful and optimistic, it’s hard not to feel a little bit of that yourself, right?
But here’s the other side of that coin: negativity is just as contagious, if not more so.
The atmosphere you carry with you affects everyone around you.
Our world is already full of criticism, division, and cynicism.
As Christ-followers, we are called to be different.
We aren't meant to blend in with the darkness; we are called to be a light!
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The Power of Your Words and Attitude
Our main verse today comes from 1 Thessalonians 5:11, where Paul writes, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Paul is telling the church in Thessalonica to
do something simple, yet profoundly powerful.
Words build or break.
Our attitude can lift someone up or lower their spirits.
Our presence can give life, or it can drain it.
Proverbs 18:21 is a powerful reminder of this: “The tongue has the power of life and death…”
You might not think you have a huge impact on the world, but your words absolutely do.
Just one kind word,
one simple encouragement,
one act of kindness
can change someone's entire day—or even their life.
Think back to a time when someone unexpectedly encouraged you.
Maybe a boss said, "I'm really impressed with your work," or
a friend said, "I'm so thankful you're in my life."
You can probably remember exactly what they said and how it made you feel.
It left a mark.
Now, imagine if we lived like that on purpose
……every single day.
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You Are the Light of the World
In Matthew 5:14–16, Jesus says,
“You are the light of the world…
let your light shine before others,
that they may see your good deeds – not to make yourself feel good, but…. To glorify your Father in heaven.”
We are “ambassadors” of Christ (represent Him).
Notice Jesus doesn’t say, "You should try to be light."
He says, "You are the light."
It's not a suggestion;
it's our identity.
• We don’t have to be loud to be light.
• We don’t have to be perfect to shine.
• We just have to be intentional.
We aren't called to curse the darkness;
we're called to shine in it.
The world might be full of negativity, but that just means the contrast is even greater when we bring:
• A gentle spirit instead of a harsh tone.
• A thankful heart instead of a complaining one.
• An encouraging word instead of criticism.
When we're shining our light, people can't help but notice the difference.
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Encouragement Is Spiritual
Spreading positivity isn’t just about being a good person; it's about being a follower of Christ.
It was a core part of the early church's culture.
In Acts 4, we read about a man named Barnabas, whose name literally means “Son of Encouragement.”
He wasn’t just generous with his money;
he was generous with his spirit.
He saw the best in people,
even when others were full of doubt.
He saw the potential in Paul, for example,
when the other disciples were still a little hesitant about him.
Barnabas believed in people, and
his encouragement helped them become who God called them to be.
Hebrews 10:24–25 also urges us to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds… encouraging one another…” This isn't just about being nice;
it's about being Christlike.
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Practical Ways to Spread Positivity
So what does it look like to be a person who builds others up in our everyday lives?
1. Speak Life. Look for opportunities to encourage. Don’t just compliment someone’s outfit; compliment their character.
Say "thank you" more often.
Don't assume people know how much you appreciate them — tell them!
Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
2. Practice Gratitude Out Loud.
Expressing gratitude — saying it out for others to hear — can completely change the atmosphere.
“I’m thankful for this day”
“I’m grateful that I can get out”
“I’m grateful for our conversation”
“I’m thankful that I have my church”
3. Be Kind on Purpose.
Kindness is simple, but it's incredibly powerful.
? A smile,
? holding the door for someone, or
? taking the time to listen when someone needs to talk.
In a world where people are constantly rushing,
pausing to genuinely see someone can change their whole day.
Remember this quote:
"Kindness is loaning someone your strength instead of reminding them of their weakness.”
4. Show Jesus Through Your Attitude.
This is a big one.
People notice how we respond when we're under pressure.
They notice how we treat others, especially those who can’t do anything for us in return.
There’s question that many Christians used to ask.
I vote that we make it popular again . . .
“What Would Jesus Do?”
If you haven’t read one of the Gospels lately (Mat, Mk, Lk, Jn), I encourage you to do so.
THEN you will KNOW what Jesus would do.
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Let's go back to our key verse one more time:
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…”
This is more than a nice suggestion.
It's a part of our calling as the Church.
Imagine what our church family would look like
if every person who walked through those doors was
met with genuine
? encouragement,
? kindness, and
? positivity.
Now, imagine what your *workplace, *your home, or *your circle of friends would feel like if you were known as a person who speaks life and shines light.
This week: Every day, encourage at least one person.
Send a thank-you note,
write a message,
Tell people you are thankful.
Let's become known as builders, not critics.
Let's shine our light with boldness and love.
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Lord Jesus,
Thank You for reminding us today of the power of encouragement.
Help us to be people who lift others up — with our words, our actions, and our attitude.
When the world feels heavy, may we be those who bring hope.
When others feel unseen, may we offer kindness.
Use us this week to spread Your light and love wherever we go.
In Your name we pray,
Amen.
