by Brittney Chan
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
II Corinthians 10:5
Ya’ll, it is so easy to spend time focusing on the ways that God has yet to bless us individually. It seems like every single day holds the opportunity to zone in on what’s lacking in our lives. The objective of the tempter is to direct our attention to all the things that we don’t have: the padded 401Ks, the new car, the children, the parents, the education, the house..the list continues. And though a mature believer realizes that being a Christian isn’t about what God does or doesn’t “give” us, they’d be foolish to say that they’ve never been tempted to compare the goods of their life’s storehouse to those of other people.
When we find ourselves perseverating on whatever unfulfilled desires we have, there are two options: allow the adversary to continually drive our minds far from acknowledging the blessings of God or concentrate our hope on the good things of the Lord. Our thoughts control the environment of our mind and an unhealthy mind will produce an unproductive life.
Paul writes to the Philippian church and says it like this: “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.”
True things - We first have to distinguish truths from falsities. Popular lies sound like this: “You will never be enough.” or “You will never have enough.” But God declares these undeniable truths: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name. You are mine.“ (Isaiah 43) and “I shall supply all your need according to my riches.” (Phil 4:19)
Let His truth ring louder than Satan’s lies.
Honest things - Find time to focus on that which is honorable and right. Seek after wisdom and ways to exhibit behavior worthy of respect.
Just things - There are certain duties we have to God and our neighbors. The Bible commands that we first love God and secondly, love our neighbors as ourselves. Our actions should reflect righteousness and the commitments we’ve made to keeping His laws.
Pure things - Every facet of our beings (eyes, mouth, ears, hands, thoughts) is called to holiness which will produce a blameless nature within us.
Lovely things - We should spend time ensuring both our conduct and conversations are attractive to believers and unbelievers alike.
We represent Christ at all times.
Things of good report - Make it a habit to spread things that are useful, profitable and uplifting to others. If what you’re talking about isn’t wholesome or encouraging, take a moment to consider if it’s really worth concentrating your time on.
Things of virtue - Focusing on things virtue means pursuing after moral excellence and giving no place to malicious intents.
Things of praise - Train your eyes to readily identify reasons to offer praise to God. Did He wake you up this morning? Were you clothed in your right mind? His blessings are bountiful and too many for all the libraries in the world to contain.
Heavenly Father,
I pray that You would teach us ways in which we can better possess our earthen vessels. Guide us into more honorable lifestyles and help us to orchestrate our thoughts on the things that please You most.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
