What Are You Thinking About?

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers, 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.

You’ve seen people with this glazed over look staring off into space. They become quiet and you know they are preoccupied with their own thoughts but what exactly are they thinking about?

Whatever we think about the most is what becomes anchored in our psyche. I believe it was Descartes that said, “I think therefore I am.” Whatever we think about the most comes to life in our actions. It’s important to be disciplined in your thought life. The Apostle Paul helps us by giving us a list of what we should be thinking about:

1. Whatever is true. Jesus is the truth. When you know the truth the truth will set you free. The devil is the father of lies. Don’t even think about the lies he’s spoken to you. Don’t waste time on lies.

2. Whatever is noble. Noble means superiority of mind or character. Think about or come to know that which builds your mind and character.

3. Whatever is right. Think about what is most ethical. There is no right way to do the wrong thing.

4. Whatever is pure. Always check your motives. That’s why Jesus told the disciples to observe the children and he said, “Unless you become like one of these you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”

5. Whatever is lovely. Beauty that appeals to the emotions is something that God gave us to enjoy. There are so many beautiful things God has created for us to take in. Instead of racing through your day, stop and enjoy the scenery. Smell the roses.

6. Whatever is admirable. Whatever deserves the highest esteem think about those things instead of focusing on your flaws focus on your qualities and seek to enhance them.

7. Anything excellent or praiseworthy. Find something good in the news today and send it to seven people. Bad news travels around the world twice before Good news gets off the porch. Think about good news.

Dear God, watch my mind today. Let my focus be on good things not the negative. Build me up through my thoughts as I meditate on everything that is excellent and praiseworthy. Thank you for clothing me in my right mind.

In Jesus Name.

Amen