Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
We’ve been talking about the process involved in believing over the past few days, and one key within that process is gratitude.
Philippians 4:6–7 sums up this principle. It says to “Rejoice in the Lord always” and it encourages us to make our requests known to God, with thanksgiving. Then “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard [our] hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (NKJV).
When you get up in the morning, you have a choice. You could focus on all the negative things you have to do that day. Or you can choose to rejoice, ask God for help, trust He’s going to come through…and open yourself up to his peace.
This teaching about gratitude is closely followed by verse 8, which teaches us what to think about instead of focusing on the negative. When you’re hurt, you might think, “I have a right to be upset!” That may be true, but this principle still applies. You won’t have peace if you don’t choose to focus on the good things in life.
What do you choose to focus on? Even when you’re thinking about yourself, make sure your thoughts pass the Philippians 4:8 test. Think good things about yourself, because no one is perfect. As well, focus on God’s goodness and all the times he’s come through for you. Focus on his promises, believe they are yours and abound in thanksgiving (Colossians 2:7); you’ll reap your harvest!