Phil 4:8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think~~ about these things.”
What a believer allows himself to think, or how or what he trains himself to think, will determine how he performs in everyday life and relationships.
Philippians 4:8 begins with “finally,” tying this passage to the proceeding list of commands that ends with how to think: “be anxious for nothing” and “let your requests be made known to God.” Whatever you think about molds your beliefs and stimulates your motivation.
Choose to think of all that is “true” about someone, which means facts—-not gossip or exaggerations. Think positively of others.
Think about whatever is “worthy of respect,” which means “noble, dignified, or exalted in character.” It is not naïve to see positive traits in others.
Think about what is “just”—-that is, whatever meets God’s standards or is in line with His commands.
Think about what is “pure,” or “free from defilements or perversions.” The challenge of keeping our thoughts unmixed with immorality or selfishness is not easy. We choose our thoughts.
Think about what is “lovely,” or “pleasing or acceptable,” as opposed to thinking of negative reasons for rejecting a person.
Think about whatever is “commendable,” which refers to something “admirable” or “deserving a good reputation.” Build up someone’s reputation.
Think about what is “excellent”—-that is, anything that is “pleasing to God, morally excellent, or good.”
Think about anything that is “praiseworthy,” or worthy of “applause or commendation,” and then look for an opportunity to compliment that person.
When you think of someone, focus on all the characteristics in this list. Remember, this is how God thinks of us (2 Cor 4:5).
“Lord, I know my thoughts too easily focus on the faults or negative characteristics of people around me. Give me the discipline to think as You do of all the positive virtues of Your children. Thank You for thinking of what is praiseworthy in my life.”