Friday Reflection September 8, 2021

Friday Reflection September 8, 2021

Think on these things
Finally, brothers and sisters, 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.
Philippians 4:8 NIV
https://bible.com/bible/111/php.4.8.NIV

Background
Some of us are very familiar with this passage of scripture. Earlier in the chapter Paul was addressing the matter of a personal dispute between two ladies in the church and urged the church to help them to settle same that they might ‘live’ in unity! In advising the church, Paul explained to them where their focus should be. That brings us to verse 8.

Discussion
As believers we have been called into an intimate relationship with God through our acceptance of Christ, by faith. As a result of said calling, we are expected to take responsibility for walking in the spirit. That is living a life that is pleasing to God and being at peace with ourselves, God and others.

In verse 8 of the chapter, Paul summarized a list of areas that should be of great importantance for Christians . They include whatever is true, lovely, just, commendable, pure, excellent, honorable, and praiseworthy.

Believers were are called to think on these things.
Good and right living is dependent on positive and holistic thinking. Even though God has promised to keep us in perfect peace, we still have a part to play. In order for us to have this perfect peace, with God, ourselves and others our focus must be on God and the things of God. He did promise to keep us in perfect peace if our minds ( thoughts) are focused on Him.

Application
There is so much going on around the world and in Jamaica. Yesterday I read about a 5 year old girl who was shot and killed by stray bullets. It was sad and disturbing. Immediately my thoughts and focus were on this child as I wondered what her parents were experiencing at the time. Then I read about the vaccine and some other news. I become so caught up with what I read I totally forget about what I was doing before that. I am saying that to say, that there are many distractions, dispute and negative news that will interfere with your thinking and cause you to have negative thoughts.
Today like Paul, I want to encourage you that no matter what is happening in your life, no matter who you are upset with, no matter what is going on in the world… Set your thoughts on the things that are good! Whatever is true, lovely, just, commendable, pure, excellent, honorable, and praiseworthy. Focus on these things!

God bless you!
Shaneka Raymore Euphfa