WEEK 39 – DAY 5

THINK ON THESE THINGS

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 be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8

This verse reminds us of a song we sang as small children: “Be careful, little mind, what you think…”. However, when you look at the full definition of the Greek word for “think on”, a new light is shed on this verse, and it is reminiscent of the hymn “Count Your Blessings”.  Of course, by doing that, your mind will be focused on positive things. What is truly amazing is that Paul was writing this from prison, and he was taking his own advice. He was counting the blessings of being in Christ and focusing his attention on encouraging believers through his letters. He was urging them to rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4). He told them to press on until the day that Christ will transform us to be like Him (Philippians 3:21). Paul was uncertain what the outcome of his imprisonment would be, but he took the positive stance that “to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). When I take pictures, I can take a panoramic view that might include unsightly images. However, I have found that in almost any location, I can find an object of beauty to focus in on. Narrowing the picture to that one item, I can take a photo that makes it seem that I am in a beautiful location when, in fact, I’m in a place of desolation. It’s all in how I focus the lens. I must train myself to focus the lens of my mind on the blessings God has given me rather than the meanness of this world. That which we focus on is what develops in our lives. Meditating on scripture, appreciating beauty in nature, savoring precious moments with loved ones…these are what we should esteem and think about. Concentrate on blessings rather than problems each night before bed. As the hymn says, “Name them one by one”.

Father, help us to keep our minds free of clutter and unproductive thinking. Help us to focus on all You have done for us and the good You desire to do through us. Help us to meditate on Your word day and night as instructed in Psalm 1. Help us to “think on these things.”