Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things.
Philippians 4:8 (CSB)
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This was the theme for Senior High week at camp back in June. It is one of those verse that I have heard/read my entire life. I have heard numerous lessons and sermons based around it. In all honestly, it’s one of those verses that just rolls off the tongue or that I just breeze by without pausing to consider what it is saying. I have a bad habit of letting things get to me. In most cases they are things that are beyond my control but I still let them creep into my brain and fill it with negativity. Sometimes I intentionally dwell on things that I know are only going to bring me down. I allow (and sometimes invite) the things of this world into my life and then wonder why I am angry, anxious, depressed, and weary. Right before this verse Paul says that we should rejoice and give thanks to God in all situations. When we do so, the peace of God guards our hearts and minds. Am I dwelling on things that draw me closer to God or am I letting the things of this world continue to drag me down?
Lord, help me to think about things that point me to You. Let my mind be focused on things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy.