“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.”

— Hebrews 10:24 (ESV)

Let’s talk peanut butter for a second. Not that thin spread where you can see the bread through it, but that thick, crunchy layer that sticks to your ribs. That’s what encouragement should feel like. When we’re called to spread positivity, we’re not talking about a light dusting; we’re talking about layering it on thick — so that it sticks, makes an impact, and leaves people feeling a little more full of life and hope. It’s the kind of encouragement that, once given, makes someone feel warm inside, like they’ve got what they need to face what’s ahead. It’s rich, comforting, and gives them something to chew on when times get tough.

Every time you lift someone up with a word of encouragement, you’re creating a PB&J moment in their life. It’s as if you’re giving them a little sandwich for the soul, something to keep with them, filling them up long after it’s given. And just like the way peanut butter binds that sandwich together, encouragement binds us together in community. It’s not just a gift we give and forget about; it’s something that brings us closer to each other. Hebrews challenges us to “stir up one another to love and good works.” In a world that often feels disconnected, we need that bond more than ever. To do that, we’ve got to spread positivity generously, making sure it reaches every corner of the “bread” — our family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers who cross our paths.

Think about a time someone slathered on a bit of encouragement for you. Maybe it was a friend who reminded you of your strengths when you felt like you were falling short, or a loved one who helped you press on through a tough season. Those moments stick, don’t they? They’re not forgotten easily. They fill us up, give us strength, and inspire us to pass that kindness forward. Just like peanut butter on a sandwich, encouragement works best when it’s spread thick and shared with intention. It’s a steady reminder that we’re not alone, that others believe in us, and that we’re capable of more than we think.

Encouragement isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the “crunch” in our spiritual lives. Without it, things can feel pretty bland and hard to swallow. But with encouragement? Suddenly, life feels a little more flavorful, a little more doable. The great thing about encouragement is that it doesn’t take much, but it can make a world of difference. A few words, a compliment, a “you’ve got this” — each one is a little blessing that brightens someone’s day, fuels their perseverance, and reminds them of God’s love. When we spread positivity with purpose, we’re actively participating in God’s plan to bring love and hope into the world. It’s not just about making someone smile — it’s about stirring them up to love others, to do good, and to spread some peanut-butter-thick encouragement of their own. When we live this way, we’re part of a cycle of goodness that keeps growing, nourishing the world one person at a time.

So go ahead, make it a priority to spread positivity as thick as you’d spread peanut butter on a PB&J. Let your words, your actions, and your love be the sustenance that strengthens others, fills them up, and reminds them that they’re never walking this journey alone. Just like a good PB&J, encouragement is best enjoyed when it’s shared, so don’t hold back — go thick, go generous, and watch God work through every word you give.

Take Action:

Today, find someone who could use a little thick encouragement. Send a message that’s heartfelt and specific, letting them know how much you appreciate them or how strong they’ve been in a difficult time. Maybe even throw in a compliment about something unique they bring to the table. Don’t just give them a thin layer; go all-in. Pour on the positivity like you’re spreading peanut butter on the world’s best PB&J — because everyone needs a little crunch to brighten their day.

Consider keeping this habit up for the week: intentionally reach out to someone each day with a thick layer of encouragement. And when you do, notice how it changes not only their day but yours too. The more you spread, the more you’re filled.