Beautiful Word Devotional #347

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Philippians 4:8

To see more clearly what Paul was encouraging the Philippians to do, look at the opposite of the qualities he deems worth thinking about: True/false. Noble/dishonorable. Right/wrong. Pure/impure. Lovely/ugly. Admirable/detestable. Excellent/shoddy. Praiseworthy/worthless.

We should not tell lies, dishonor others, cheat, or indulge in impure thoughts, shows, or media. We should not rank sin, rationalizing that at least we’re not as bad as _____ and giving ourselves permission to not repent. We should not endorse things that destroy God’s creation. We should not do half-hearted work.

Now back to the positives and the truth that, left to ourselves, we cannot think only about what Paul listed. But calling on the Holy Spirit, we can. He will empower us to focus our minds and honor God with our thoughts. And the result will be greater peace.

Lord, I want to fix my mind only on excellent and praiseworthy things—and I need your help, amen.