WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Phil 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there by any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Our thoughts reveal who we really are. Solomon wrote, “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7). You see the reality is we are not what we think we are. Rather, what we think, is what we are. Paul called for thoughts centered in praise. He rejects negative, critical thinking as improper for believers. “...if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Why are our thought patterns so important to God? What we think determines what we say and do. A thought is the father of every word. Every word that brings blessings to others originates with a thought. Every word that inspires and encourages originates with a thought. Every word that discourages and destroys originates with a thought. Every word that cultivates hate and hurt originates with a thought.

A thought is the father of every act. Every act of kindness and love originates with a thought. Every act of crime and violence originates with a thought. Every lustful and adulterous act originates with a thought. No wonder God is interested in the topics about which we choose to think. No wonder the psalmist asked the Lord to know his thoughts (Ps 139:23).

How can we tell if our thought patterns are pleasing to God? Paul summarizes the focus of our thoughts if they are to please God. He gives a picture of the Christian mind as it ought to be. Our thoughts should be of things that are true (truthful). Our thoughts should be of things that are honest (noble). Our thoughts should be of things that are just (right, good). Our thoughts should be of things that are pure.  Our thoughts should be of things that are lovely and of good report. Our thoughts should be of the best in others. Our thoughts should be focused on praising God.

How can we conform our thought patterns to God's will? Right thoughts come from hearts that are right with God (Psalm 139:23-24). We must confess our wrong thoughts to the Lord and be forgiven (1 John 1:9). We must produce mental input that produces good thoughts. What's happening with your devotional life?. What's happening in your worship of Jesus?. How much time do you spend taking in God's Word? How much time in front of the tv? How much time reading things that don't edify? Remember...garbage in, garbage out!

If Jesus returns today, what will He find on your mind? What will you change in your life to have thoughts pleasing to God? Will you commit to developing thought patterns of praise?

I like the way The Message reads on this verse. “Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious – the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse” (Phil 4:8 - The Message)

Until next time...enjoy the journey!

Ray

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