THINK ON THESE THINGS AND ELIMINATE WORRY

Bible Study

June 13, 2018

Philippians 4:8, 9

THINK ON THESE THINGS AND ELIMINATE WORRY

When faced with worry, decisions, and considering a course of action, allow these eight principles or values to shape your attitudes and determine your courses of action.

8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable-if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise, dwell on these things.

Finally. After Paul cautions believers (vss. 6, 7) to be anxious (worry) for nothing, and let the Peace of God, guard their hearts and minds, he finally calls the believer to action. To eliminate worry, we must focus on things that are:

  • TRUE (Honest). Don’t listen to lies and gossip. Cultivate the habit of listening for understanding. Few seek the truth.
  • HONORABLE (Worthy of respect; noble)
  • JUST (Right) Actions are synchronized with God’s truth.
  • PURE (Holy) Set apart like the sacrificial lamb, free from blemish.
  • LOVELY (Beautiful) Excellent spiritual beauty, not worldly. Example, the stunning Garden of Eden before the fall.
  • COMMENDABLE. Of good standing; pleasant to hear about. Case: The brothers at Lystra and Iconium in speaking of Timothy Acts 16: 2. “And he was well spoke of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium.”
  • MORALE EXCELLENCE (Excellence or admirable) No flawed characteristics.
  • PRAISE (Things that are praiseworthy). Praise dominates the believer’s thoughts and prayers to God. If used appropriately, praise will often be used.

These eight values, like all values, determine our actions. What’s on the inside shows up on the outside.

9 Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Paul, the teacher says do as I do, learn as I learned, receive as I received, and hear as I hear. Paul is a living example of what he taught. Paul was obedient. We must be obedient.