Catalyst

Series: “Remote Control”

Focus: Negativity is a thought pattern that reflects the condition of our heart.

Family Discussion:

There is an epidemic of negativity that permeates our society.  Between politics, movie critics, relationships, and even the weather, our tendency is generally to become negative.  You probably see this just as true in your family as well!  Whenever there is conflict, the first response is an accusation or an excuse.  This attitude is more than just a poor decision, but a reflection of the condition of our heart.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is
anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” -Philippians 4:8

God’s desire for our lives is not for us to be controlled by negativity.  If the condition of our heart is controlled by our own selfish pride, or if we allow pain from our past to keep us from seeing the abundant life that God promises us, we will miss out on living in the freedom that He provides.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why is God so concerned with the condition of our thoughts?
2. How have you seen your attitudes reflected in your actions?
3. When a family member has a negative attitude, how does that affect everyone else?
4. How can you help each other remember Philippians 4:8?

“For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh,
but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.” -Romans 8:2-4

Wrap Up: As a family, there are two big things that you must understand about negativity. #1 it is based on the internal condition of your heart more than the external condition of your circumstances. #2 it is as contagious as the chicken pox!  Your attitude shows others what’s going on inside and can have a huge impact on everyone else’s attitudes, too!