Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever thingsare lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.”
It seems that all too often we have replaced excellence with convenience. We tend to get by with the least amount of effort, time, or cost. As a result we fail to encounter excellence. We surely can think of examples in the human family, but why spend the time trying to think of illustrations from mankind when we can use the life of Jesus Christ as the epitome of excellence and also One who is praiseworthy.
It is possible to cut directly to the bottom line in this passage and see where Paul is pointing his attention. It is in the section set off by the hyphens. Two words stand out here that should grab our attention: VIRTUOUS and PRAISEWORTHY.
We need to see in Jesus the living example of One who was always worthy of a good report. He stood head and shoulders above everyone who has ever lived. He demonstrated virtue wherever He went. Everything He did was praiseworthy — His parables as well as His actions. He will always be worthy of our thought life as we meditate upon Him and the life He lived. What are you thinking?!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil