Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8

Scripture tells us the things we are to think on—Whatsoever things are TRUE. His Word is true. Jesus is true. Whatsoever things are HONEST. We are not only to think on those things that are true, but honest or honorable. When we think on what we know is true and honest, we cannot believe the lies the devil whispers in our ear, or the lies we conger up in our own minds! Combat those lies with truth! We are to think on whatsoever things are JUST, and upright, PURE (from carnality), things that are LOVELY (acceptable and pleasing), and whatsoever things are of GOOD REPORT (well spoken of, reputable). And, those things that are virtuous and praise-worthy. Think on these things! 

This is not the practice of “positive thinking.” 

This is praise thinking. 

It’s practical thinking. 

It’s purposeful thinking.

This is the prescription for taking control of our thoughts. 

I love a vacation to the beach. It’s relaxing and restful and peaceful—we can think of a trip to the beach, or the mountains, or whatever is pleasing to you—maybe it’s the mall, as an escape from our worries and anxieties. And sometimes we need a vacation! Living Philippians 4:8 is not an escape. It’s not a vacation from reality. It’s not a clever tool. It’s peace right where we are today.

Verse 8 is sandwiched between verses 7 and 9—both referencing the peace of God! When we take our thoughts captive (check out 2 Corinthians 10:5) and think on these things listed—what we know is true and honest and just, our minds will rest in His peace.

It’s effort—it’s conscious effort. It’s daily—even hourly! We have to purpose to not let our minds and hearts run amuck with lies, worry and anxious thoughts. Instead, think on these things! Rest in His peace and love and leave the rest to the Lord. 

We all have real worries, anxieties, and fears. Whatever you’re facing today, Jesus knows. Fix your thoughts on Him and His Word—what is true—what you have learned in Him. When we do this, we are not overcome with our worries. It doesn’t mean they go away. It means He is our peace in every situation. He knows what happened yesterday, what’s happening today and what will happen tomorrow. Doing this doesn’t necessarily change our situation. It changes us in the situation. He is worthy to be trusted in it. He will not fail you, ever! He loves you with an everlasting love. He is for you. He is a good, good Father! Think about the love of Jesus for you!