RESOURCES — SHORT ARTICLES

 

SHORT ARTICLES BY TOM ELSEROAD
	2020-12-07	Meditate On These Things (Ph.4:8)
		Php 4:8  Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. This is a well-known verse that admonishes believers to think on positive terms. Paul encourages believers to think about, “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good report, … any virtue, or praiseworthy.” This is actually a command. It suggests we can control our thoughts which should be characterized by what is good and uplifting. Philippians is generally considered a positive book. There are a few rebukes, and some hint of disharmony but mostly uplifting. The theme is joy in the Christian life. Paul in chapter one refers to his imprisonment, and how it could be used to further the gospel. He asks them to walk worthy of the gospel. In chapter two Paul points to Christ as the ultimate example of one who put the interests of others first, which believers are to adopt this attitude. In chapter three Paul warns the church to avoid teachers who add to the gospel of grace. Paul teaches them not to put confidence in the flesh. Paul, in the final chapter four, gives a list of things he wants the Philippians to do. He admonishes and encourages them to live right living. Paul encompasses a list of positive things to think about. The desired effect is cumulative. He wants them to think about these godly thoughts, and to exclude everything that is not edifying. Now we know the world is full of messages and images that are incompatible with a Biblical worldview. Christians can begin to think in secular terms giving a worldy value. We are to reject those things that do not draw us closer to God. We are to focus on the things that do. Remember we have the ability to choose what we think about. Thinking about whatever is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, any virtue, and anything praiseworthy should apply to every area of life. It seems especially difficult with our over-consumption of media outlets who intend to compromise Christian values at every turn. What you watch or listen to should be measured against Paul's exhortation to view life from God's value system. If what you are watching or listening to does not line up with Phillippians 4:8 then it does not pass the God-test. If Christians took this verse seriously, our media consumption would have to change. Above all, read God's Word and pray. Ask God to help you focus your mind on what is good and pure. Pastor Tom Elseroad

 

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