Think About These Things

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

This list can interject into so many different types of thoughts. Are you anxious? Think about what is true. Are you lacking joy? Think about what is excellent and commendable. Are you tempted to sin? Think about what is honourable and pure. Are you hurting? Think about what is lovely. In any and all circumstances, we are called to think about these things. And who or what fits these descriptions better than Jesus Christ and his work on the cross?

 When we are anxious, thinking about Jesus reminds us of the truth that is able to anchor our souls and give us steady ground. When we are lacking joy, thinking about Christ and his completed work reminds us of the joy set before us. When we are tempted to sin, thinking about Jesus reminds us that he died to free us from sin and helps us to follow him instead. When we are hurting, thinking about Jesus provides us with the comfort we can find nowhere else. In any and all circumstances we can fix our minds, eyes, and hearts on him. Wherever you are, whatever your circumstances may be, remember Jesus, who he is, and what he has done. This won’t dissolve your problems but bit by bit, over time, it will become easier to return to him, easier to find your footing again, easier to hope and rejoice even in the heavy and painful times. Think about these things. Think about Jesus!