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Think Noble Thoughts

June 7th, 2023

Philippians 4:1-9

My mother’s philosophy was, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything.” She drilled this into us while we were growing up. This outlook also translates to the way we think.

I grew up in what is known as the “Cowboy State.” Every good cowboy knows that the reins direct the horse. To turn a horse, one only needs to pull on the reins to one side or the other, depending on which way one wants to go. We can say the same about people. Before we can change behavior, it must be thought by our minds.

Philippians 4:8 conveys this truth. Paul directs us to the higher virtues. Whatever is (1) true, (2) honorable, (3) just, (4) pure, (5) lovely, (6) commendable, (7) of excellence, or (8) worthy of praise should be what we think about. Paul directed the Philippians to imitate him as a spiritual leader, just as he imitated Christ.

In the same way, people are looking at us. When we imitate Jesus and show these higher virtues to the world, God is glorified.

Author: Christie American Horse