Read Philippians 4:6–9
Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever
is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything
is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
Paul balanced four activities: “learned” and “received” and “heard”
and “seen.” It is one thing to learn a truth, but quite another to receive
it inwardly and make it a part of our inner self. Facts in the head are
not enough; we must also have truths in the heart. In Paul’s ministry,
he not only taught the Word but also lived it so that his listeners could
see the truth in his life. Paul’s experience ought to be our experience.
We must learn the Word, receive it, hear it, and do it.
The peace of God is one test of whether or not we are in the will
of God. If we are walking with the Lord, then the peace of God (v. 7)
and the God of peace (v. 9) exercise their influence over our hearts.
Whenever we disobey, we lose that peace, and we know we have done
something wrong.
Right praying, right thinking, and right living—these are the
conditions for having the secure mind and victory over worry.
Something to Ponder
What can you do to keep your thoughts true, pure, lovely, and so
forth? How do you prevent less noble thoughts from sneaking in?