I caught myself doing it again yesterday. There is even a name for it now; doomscrolling. The TV was on in the background and I was “catching up” with social media posts. One negative comment, and I found myself scrolling through finding more upon more negativity, anger, resentment and frustration. If, as Victor Lindlahr suggests, you are what you eat. I was consuming a pretty unhealthy diet.
Okay, in my defence, we do live in a bad news world
Every day, headlines remind us that the world is heavy with conflict, fear, uncertainty, and disappointment. Our news feeds overflow with stories of violence, division, economic strain, and personal tragedy. It can feel as though hope is fading and darkness is gaining ground.
Yet followers of Jesus Christ are called to live differently.
Christians are meant to be good news people in a bad news world.
The Gospel itself means “good news.” At the centre of our faith is the message that God has not abandoned humanity. Through Jesus Christ, God entered our broken world to bring forgiveness, restoration, peace, and eternal hope. No matter how dark the culture becomes, the light of Christ still shines. Jesus said;
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
(Matthew 5 vs. 14)
That means believers are not called to spread fear, outrage, or despair. We are called to carry hope.
The World Needs Hope More Than Ever
People are exhausted by negativity. Many are anxious about the future, discouraged by political division, and burdened by personal struggles that remain invisible to others. Behind smiling faces are hurting hearts searching for peace.
This is where Christians have a powerful opportunity.
When we speak words of encouragement instead of criticism, we reflect Christ.
When we show kindness in an angry culture, we reflect Christ.
When we forgive instead of retaliate, we reflect Christ.
When we remain faithful and hopeful during difficult seasons, we demonstrate that our confidence is rooted in something eternal.
The Gospel does not ignore suffering, but it offers hope in the middle of suffering.
Good News Is More Than Positive Thinking
Biblical hope is not pretending everything is fine. Christians face grief, loss, disappointment, and hardship just like everyone else. The difference is that our hope is anchored in God’s promises rather than changing circumstances. The Apostle Paul wrote:
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good
(Romans 12 vs. 21)
Good news people overcome darkness by bringing light into it.
That may look simple:
- Praying for someone who is struggling
- Encouraging a discouraged friend
- Serving quietly without recognition
- Sharing Scripture with gentleness
- Offering compassion instead of judgment
- Choosing gratitude in difficult times
Small acts of faithfulness can have eternal impact.
Our Message Is Jesus
The greatest news we can share is not self-improvement, success, or comfort. The greatest news is that Jesus heals broken hearts, and offers new life.
In a world searching for identity, Christ offers belonging.
In a world filled with anxiety, Christ offers peace.
In a world marked by death, Christ offers life in all its fullness.
The early Christians transformed their world not through political power or cultural dominance, but through radical love, unwavering faith, and fearless hope.
The same calling remains today.
Living As Good News People
Being good news people means:
- Speaking life instead of spreading bitterness
- Reflecting joy without denying reality
- Trusting God when circumstances are uncertain
- Loving people who are difficult to love
- Pointing others toward Jesus through both words and actions
The world may continue delivering bad news, but Christians carry a message that can never be defeated.
Christ is risen.
Hope is alive.
Grace is available.
And the Gospel is still good news for everyone willing to receive it.
How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news
(Romans 10 vs. 15)
May we be people who bring that good news wherever we go.
Than k you Sean , I needed to hear this. There is so much bad news thrown at us. Thank God for Jesus who can turn things around with his living hope and guidance.