Why Are Our Thoughts Important?

Believe it or not, the subject of our continual meditations is very important to our lives, and to the quality of our Christian experience.

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.  (Phil 4:8 NKJV)

This verse from the Bible urges us to think only about things that are: 

• True,
• Noble,
• Just,
• Pure,  
• Lovely,
• A good report. 
• Additionally, it insists that we think of those topics that have:
  • Virtue (goodness, righteousness) and those that are
  • Praiseworthy (worthy of celebration).

Why are these things important to the Lord?  The Scriptures also say:

 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth) . . . (Eph 5:8-9 NKJV)   Jesus called Himself the ‘light of the world’ in John 8:12, and we who follow Him and walk in His light produce fruit that is good and right and true.

The Lord Jesus Christ is the only person who ever walked the earth who can be described using all the words shown in the list from Philippians 4:8!  He lived a holy, sin-free, righteous life; and obeyed His Father’s will perfectly.  He did not glory in gossip or in evil reports or in negative stories.  Rather, he turned peoples’ hearts toward the love, mercy, and forgiveness of God, the Father.  He brought GOOD NEWS to mankind!

Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.  (Eph 4:25)  We are encouraged to speak the truth concerning the gospel of Jesus Christ as well as the mercy and love of God to one another. 

So, let us endeavor to meditate on things that meet the guidelines shown in Philippians 4:8.  Our lives and our conversations will be blessed and encouraging!