Thoughts of Life

"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

This is the verse we try to do. Yet without "entering" into the preceding verses, we end up frustrated and ineffective in our ability to think like this.

Rejoice in the Lord.
Relax into gentleness because the Lord is near.
Pour out our heart to Him about everything, in great thanksgiving.
Allow the peace of God to guard our hearts and minds.
Now....

Now we can begin to think thoughts that are full of life and that bring life. So much of our existence is not only directed by our thoughts, but our thoughts actually pave the way for our life to flow.  As we choose His way, His life and His goodness begins to fill our hearts with encouragement and blessing. We then have the ability to flow in that stream to encourage and bless others through-out our day.

What we read, what we watch on TV, what we listen to from others -- all these influence our way of thinking. So I am reminded of our Lord's word's in Mark 4:24 “Consider carefully what you hear,” he continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more." 


Our thoughts also completely govern our words. Whatever comes from our mouths, comes as a result of our thinking. So once again, we have our thoughts at the center of our lives. 


As we learn to think with the Lord Jesus, we bring life, healing and encouragement to ourselves and all those around us. It is not about being real, it is about being truthful. The truth is in Him and these good items of thought lift us into that truth. 


This entire passage is a key in beginning of taking our thoughts captive and releasing ourselves into all that the Kingdom is and has for its citizens. It is impossible to worry and think the thoughts commanded here. So as we choose (this is always the key) to think these matters, we discover the goodness of our Lord at every turn. 


What an awesome God!