Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Have you felt the itch of stir-craziness yet? Are you ready to go somewhere – anywhere – just to get away from the craziness of life right now? It is so hard to feel like you are physically stuck, unable to do much. Often times, these physical limitations lead to changed thinking patterns – frustration, depression, anger, grief. Although you may not be able to do much to change your physical situation right now, Paul offers a reminder in the book of Philippians that you can change what you think about.
Truth, honor, justice, excellence that Paul lists in Philippians 4:8 are fruit that come from living a life of faith in God. But you cannot produce good fruit if you are not actively putting good into yourself. What you choose to meditate and think on is what will not only stay with you, but also flow out of you.
Guard your heart and your mind during difficult times like this. Work to captivate every thought to obedience to God. It won’t solve the physical problems you are going through, but it will help give you the strength and peace you need to get through it.
Pray With Us
God, thank You that even in the midst of difficult times there are still good things that I can focus on. Thank You for waking me up today, for breath in my lungs, and for the peace that I can always find in You. Help me keep focused on what is true and pure. Protect me from letting the enemy gain any foothold on my thoughts. God, I want to produce good fruit. Help me think and act in ways that honor You. And forgive me for the times that I have fallen short,
Amen.
