Philippians 4:8–think on these things

Here I offer a short devotional based on Philippians 4:8. It would be perfect to share with a small group or committee, or to use for your personal reflection.

I love Philippians 4:8. It’s a steady reminder about where our focus belongs.

As a rule, it’s best for our focus to be on good things. Positive things. Splendid things. Sometimes we get off track. At least I do.

For me, this might be one of the greatest challenges in all of scripture. I find it exceedingly difficult to control my thoughts. I get caught up in daydreams, worry over something I said, concern about what I have to do next, or reliving an intense experience. What am I accomplishing with this type of thinking? Absolutely nothing. And yet….

It’s a matter of FOCUS. Is my focus on myself, my problems, my goals, my needs, or is my focus on Christ? If Christ is my focus, then I naturally think about things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and worthy of praise. That is a much better way to live, because it’s free of guilt, worry, dread, and anxiety. 

The harsh reality is that daily challenges, work pressure, and relationship demands can easily sidetrack us. Let’s take a closer look at the descriptors in this verse:

True

Honest and sure. Genuine. Let’s anchor our thoughts in what is real and reliable: the truth of God’s word and promises. When we stay grounded in truth, we find stability and clarity.

Honorable

Dignified and wholesome. Noble. Thinking in honorable ways helps us respect ourselves and others and live with integrity.

Right

Just and ethical. Morally correct and fair. When we focus on what is right, our choices and actions begin to reflect God’s love and justice.

Pure

Clean and sincere. Guarding our minds from cynicism and distraction helps us stay devoted to what is good and life-giving.

Lovely

Full of beauty and joy. We can embrace moments of grace and kindness and be uplifted by the beauty in creation and in others.

Admirable

Worthy of respect. When we notice virtue and goodness around us, we cultivate encouragement and gratitude. It’s important to name and celebrate what is admirable in others.

Excellent

High quality. Thoughtful and wholehearted. Striving for excellence doesn’t mean perfection; it means offering our best with purpose and care.

Worthy of praise

This brings all the others together. Anything that is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, or excellent is also praiseworthy. When we dwell on these things, our perspective shifts. We begin to see our work, relationships, and challenges through the lens of grace.

Here’s a deeper look at what Paul may have meant.

Paul’s words here aren’t meant to pull believers out of the world’s struggles or into naïve optimism. Instead, they call us to orient our minds and hearts toward what reveals God’s goodness, even in the midst of injustice or uncertainty. Focusing on what is true and right doesn’t mean ignoring pain; it means holding truth and hope together. To notice and honor what aligns with God’s vision of equity and restoration. To dwell on “anything pure” is not about moral perfection but about sincerity and integrity of purpose. Whatever is “admirable” and “excellent” reflects compassion, beauty, and kindness in human community.

Paul’s invitation is deeply communal. He writes to a church navigating conflict and persecution, encouraging them to shape their shared imagination around the goodness of God revealed in everyday life. Contemplating these things forms resilience and helps believers become co-creators of peace. People whose thoughts naturally lead to acts of justice, empathy, and joy.

I think it helps to ask God daily for help. Try a simple prayer and meditation with this short devotional:

Holy God, fill me and renew my mind today. Shape my thoughts. Give me an affinity for what is good and pleasing to you. Amen.

Then spend a few minutes reciting Philippians 4:8. Reflect on a particular one of the positive descriptors listed. What is something that is true? Honorable? Right? Pure? Lovely? Admirable? Excellent? Worthy of praise? Return your mind to Philippians 4:8 throughout the day. 

Let’s tackle this challenge together. 

I like using a short devotional like this when it’s my turn leading a small group. What about you—what verse challenges or inspires you most? I’d love to hear in the comments.

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Fondly,

Crysti

updated October 2025