Philippians 4:8-9

INTRODUCTION

          We have established that humans are more than “super computers” that react a specific way because they are programmed (wired) to do so. We are more than physical bodies and “synchronized electrical pulses from masses of neurons communicating with each other.” No, we have a mind which, at least during this series, I am equating with a heart or soul or conscience or will or personality or emotions, etc.
          Since we have a mind or soul, it is possible to take control of our thoughts and emotions and plans and decisions. We are not ships aimlessly adrift on the ocean. We have been provided a destination and the resources for reaching our  destination (destin-y).
          However, there is a problem. Our own minds/souls/hearts have been stained by sin. Therefore, basically, we do not think right. We do not make wise decisions. Our emotions are erratic and volatile. We live for self-preservation and self-advancement and self-gratification.
          The only way to be delivered from our self-imposed asylum and confusion is to receive the mind of Christ at salvation, i.e. be “born again,” and then continue to seek God’s thoughts, feelings, desire, and will for our lives. I guarantee He makes better decisions than we do. He is much happier than we are. He is much smarter than we are.

 
PHILIPPIANS 4:8-9
          There are a couple incredible verses connected to our subject that we need to know, quote, and live by in regards to our thought life. The first is Philippians 4:8-9 (NKJV) – “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 [think] on these things.”
          The Apostle Paul is encouraging his beloved Philippian Church friends in the Lord to seize control of their thought life. I love this verse! Let us take another look at it with a different translation, the Amplified Version, which seeks to delve into every nuance of the verse, “For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them].”
          Think on these good things, contemplate their virtue, take account of how often you think godly thoughts, be captivated by them, and fix your minds on them.