Phil 4:8
8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
One of the hardest things I struggle with as I face a new year is controlling my thoughts. I read somewhere that about 70% of our thinking is negative thoughts. We might argue that the world is a contrary place in which to live but Paul urged the people of Philippi to intentionally think on good things.
The Philippians came to Christ out of a heathen environment. Their former lifestyle was totally unacceptable for a Christian. Even their thinking had to go through a gradual transformation. The Christian is called upon to make a choice between our old lifestyle and the new life in Christ.
The word “think” has a deeper meaning in the Greek. It really means using our minds to come to the right conclusion. Don’t let the consensus of our culture do your thinking for you! Christian behavior and Christian thinking are not automatic results of salvation. Both are accomplished through practice.
Those things that are honest, just and holy, constantly and intentionally let your mind dwell on these things. This may mean filtering the information that comes across your desk. You may need a bigger trash can. You may need to spend more quiet moments without any TV noise of any kind. Remember; think on the things that are pure. Doubt your doubts. Believe, and practice, your beliefs. The reward for this practiced and practical thinking is the presence of God in our lives. “And the God of peace shall be with you.” (Verse 9)
Dear Lord, let me filter out the shouts of the Devil so that I may hear the whispers of the Holy Spirit. AMEN
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