THINK WITH GOD

11/6/2023

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things" (Philippians 4:8).

Thinking is not a very commonly practiced skill among believers. As a matter of fact, the deployment of your mind through thought is an important skill to have when dealing with the affairs of your life. As a believer, you must take absolute responsibility for your life and this is only possible when you think actively with God.

Today's theme scripture tells us exactly how to think actively with God. It says, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." (Philippians 4:8). Thinking with God means thinking with complete reference to the Word of God. 

For instance, it matters how you think about adversity. 2 Timothy 3:12 says, "Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." This means that if you are going to live godly, there will be scheduled times of adversity. The way to approach adversity is to think about it with God's word. James 1:2 says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials." Visualizing the import of this scripture might mean that instead of scowling at challenges, you recognize them as opportunities for celebration. 

Applying Philippians 4:8 to the issues in your life, think about what is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, good to report, excellent, and praiseworthy about the adversity. And you will find cause to celebrate the breakup, job loss, or symptoms. Brothers and sisters, copy Job, who "...[d]espite all this [the loss of his children, businesses, and property], Job did not sin, nor did he blame God" (Job 1:22). Don't dig your heels in and ask, "why me?" Rather, do the Lord a dance and praise His name. 

Saints, there should be no cause for anxiety or shame if you think about things in your life with God. Don't wait for the feelings of shame, anxiety, and despair to come. Rather, take out a sheet of paper, think with God, and write down the things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, good to report, excellent, and praiseworthy about the issues that confront you, and let praise bubble up from within.

Have a beautiful day!

Faith-Filled Confession 

My thoughts are sanctified as I see my life with the eyes of God. Since God only thinks of what is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, good to report, excellent, and praiseworthy about me and the circumstances of my life, I commit to thinking with Him today and always. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Prayer Points:

Psalm 122:6, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you."

• Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. 

• Pray against plans to use the crises in Israel to launch other attacks in the United States.

• Pray for Washington and all who are in positions of authority in the United States.

ONE-YEAR READING PLAN: Jeremiah 40-42; Hebrews 2