Philippians 4 Selected (NKJV)
1Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord,…….8 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. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
To what are you listening? Are you listening to the daily news reports? If you listen to network news, you are getting more than your share of discouragement. We’ve been conditioned to believe that “no news is good news.” That is more relevant to today than it seems. Our network news people tell us the most sensational headlines with the “story at eleven!” Facts and information are not needed. Just give us flash. There hasn’t been a journalist since Walter Cronkite or Huntley & Brinkley. The worse the story, the more excited they are to promote it to us. If we listen to all this negative input all the time, what kind of disposition will we develop?
Paul had a better idea. He tells us to concentrate on better things. The mind takes in what you allow. If you allow negative input, you will develop a negative attitude. Why not allow positive input? Why not focus on the good things rather than just the bad. Become a Good Finder. We know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him. Don’t let the network news determine what goes into your mind. You bring about what you think about. What do you want to allow to go into your mind?
Also consider what comes out of your mouth. Do you speak what is praiseworthy? The world tears us down. Why not work toward building one another up as we are advised here. Use your words to build and promote others. As you go through your day, look for the good things that are happening and call them to people’s attention. Praise people who are doing a good job. Activity that is praised will be repeated. Praise the activity you would like to have performed more often. Do this especially in young people. Set an example of how to praise and how to live. They are watching. What world do we want to pass to the next generation? Should it be a world of rudeness and self-absorption or a world of respect and common courtesy? You decide! Are you showing the example you wish to have followed by others. Paul suggests that it be praiseworthy. Is your behavior praiseworthy? It is your choice. Decide for praiseworthy today and God will be with you!
Hello Lord! Thank You for giving us Paul’s example of how to live. Paul learned from you how we should live. Help us to look for the good in all situations and praise that good. Teach us to focus outside of ourselves. Help us to live in a praiseworthy manner and encourage others to do the same by our example. In Your name we pray! Amen!