Today's Reading:O.T. - 2 Kings 8 - 9
N.T. - Philippians 4:2 - 23
Focus Verses: Phil. 4:8-9
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Insight:
What we think about is important. What we take into our hearts and minds can edify and inspire us toward righteousness and wholeness; it can also corrupt and diminish us. Paul urges Christians to focus their thoughts and stimulate their minds with what is true, noble, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and worthy of praise. He also suggests that they look to and emulate his example of following Christ.
Response and Action:
I need to be careful and intentional about the focus of my thoughts. I need to stimulate my mind and heart with healthy and uplifting things. I must be intentional about seeking out what is beautiful and true. I need to take note of and imitate men and women who exemplify faith and life in Christ. I need to be discerning and discriminating about everything I take in through reading, listening, viewing, and experiencing.
O God, help me to live for you and through you in thought, word, and deed. Encourage me, by your Spirit, through your word, your people, and all that is beautiful and true. Give me the will and the wisdom to guard my heart, feed my spirit, stimulate my mind, and care for my body. Thank you that there is so much good in the world that inspires and motivates me toward truth and beauty. Show me what is best, and use it to bless, enrich, and improve me for your service and praise. Amen.
Proverbs: 26:27
"If a man digs a pit, he will fall into it; if a man rolls a stone, it will roll back on him."
Resources:
Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense
by N.T. Wright
