Apr 8 - "Think On These Things"

Philippians 4:1-13
"Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
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Running a very close second to the opening chapter of John's Gospel, these verses in Paul's letter to the church at Philippi are my very favorite in all of Scripture. I love these words of encouragement!

We live in an interesting time. While on one side of the equation, we are prosperous as a people in ways greater than anyone hundreds or thousands of years ago could have imagined. On the other, there are people hurting deeply all around us. Technology and other modern marvels have allowed us to lose some of our ability to be in relationship with one another in a direct way. There are the burdens of a sagging economic climate. People have lost jobs, livelihoods and years of savings. While advances in science have taken away many of the things we used to have to think about, we have different, more complex burdens to bear in order to survive in today's world.

When dwelt upon too much, all of these things can allow us to end up in a state of fear, sadness, hurt and depression. If you read the entirely of the verses in Paul's letter, you will see he is trying to encourage the people in the new church at Philippi. They have been through tough times, facing a divide in their young congregation. Paul's words are of support and encouragement. You can almost hear him saying (as our teenager Maddy would say), "Chill-ax! Don't worry about these things. Think about better things!". What's amazing about these words? Paul wrote them from prison.

At all times in our lives, we have things going on for which we should be deeply thankful and rejoice in the bountiful blessings we have received. But, there are also things at the very same time with which we struggle deeply; trouble, trials and tribulations which cause us sorrow, stress and pain. Paul says, simply, think about the good things, Rejoice in them! Turn the things which cause sadness and hurt over to God. Christ can carry this burden for us.

So, I will end today in Paul's words. They are perfect and do not need my feeble attempt at finding additional meaning. Every time I read them, peace and joy enter me. A smile shines on my face.

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Awesome!!!!