short devotional: 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 this verse. It’s an important reminder to us about where our focus is.

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.

As far as I’m concerned, this is the greatest challenge 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. Anchoring our thoughts in the truth of God’s word and promises. Grounding ourselves in stability and clarity.

Honorable

Dignified and wholesome. Noble. Thinking this way develops a mindset that respects ourselves and others.

Right

Just and ethical. Morally correct and fair. This type of thinking safeguards our decisions and actions to reflect God’s love.

Pure

Clean and undefiled. Guarding our minds from impurity and distractions. This helps maintain a heart that is sincere and devoted.

Lovely

Bringing beauty and joy. Embracing moments of grace and kindness. Being uplifted by the beauty in creation and in others.

Admirable

Worthy of respect. Reflecting virtue and goodness. This fosters a spirit of encouragement and gratitude. It’s important to notice and express appreciation for what is admirable in others.

Excellent

High quality. Superior. Think of excellence in endeavors and putting forth our best effort.

Worthy of praise

This summarizes all of the others, because anything true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and excellent is also praiseworthy. If we focus on these types of things, we have healthier attitudes about stresses in our lives and have a better perspective on our work lives and relationships.

How to do this? 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. Control my thoughts. Give me an affinity for good things that are 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 that verse 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.

You also might want to check out these posts:

• praying scripture
• Human Library: creating positive change one “book” at a time
• homemade cleaning products
• planning a group study
• a reflection on peace

Fondly,

Crysti