8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
***Vs. 8 - “Whatever...” - In a continuation of Paul’s instructions on how to avoid personal conflicts in the church, he gives us some things to focus on. Look at the list below:
- “True” - look for what is truthful, as opposed to lies
- “Honorable” - refers to a venerated character, i.e., respected by others
- “Right” - things that are upright, virtuous, faultless, innocent, guiltless
- “Pure” - free from carnality, or modest, chaste and clean
- “Lovely” - acceptable, or pleasing
- “Good repute” - hearing a good report, or good things
- “Any excellence” - moral goodness, purity, virtuous.
- “Anything worthy of praise” - anything that can be commended.
“Dwell on these things.” - Disputes are often based on perceived offenses. We become focused on our anger, our hurt feelings. We concentrate on the faults of the other person. Thinking, “How could they DO that to ME?” We are encouraged to stop and think, “What Would Jesus Do?” That question has been mocked and parodied in our culture, thereby losing some of its impact. It is a good question! In truth, Jesus is the perfect example. Of course He is the perfect example - He is God. But I am not.
Trying to follow a Spirit is daunting (“God is Spirit, and true worshippers must worship in spirit and in truth.” John 4:34). That is why Jesus does not leave us to our own devices. Jesus lives in the Believer. My life is in Him! He is in me! He has given me the Holy Spirit to teach and guide. “...You have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on the things on earth.” (Col. 3:1,2) Guided by the Holy Spirit we turn our attentions to the things in the list above. Led by the Holy Spirit to think on these ‘good thoughts’ (things similar to the list above) changes our focus.
Your life will be directed by what you are predominantly thinking. So, pick good subjects to ponder. Scripture is fairly clear, your actions reflect your ‘heart’ - your mental and spiritual foundation. “As a man thinks within, so is he” (Prov. 23:7a) God will put in us a new heart (Ezek. 11:19). As an example of people being driven by their mental and spiritual condition, Jesus did miracles among the Jews and many would refuse to believe in Him. (John 12:37-40) Our actions, good or evil, are directed by our heart - our mental, moral and spiritual condition. (Matt. 12:34b; Matt. 15:18; Mark 7:21; Luke 6:45)
You believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Thus, you know He lives in you. He has said so. Knowing He is in you, allows you to order your life around Him and His power through the Holy Spirit. Present your mind and actions into His hands and control.
No comments:
Post a Comment