| Philippians 4:8 – Cognitive Behavior Therapy in the Bible. Philippians 4:8 (NIV) Finally, brothers, 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. Think about such things Phil. 4:8: The word translated “think” here means to “continually focus your mind.” But more is implied than considering. We are to concentrate on expressing these qualities in our lives, so that as we dwell on them, they in turn dwell in us. * the true–meaning the truthful in thought as well as every aspect of life. * the noble–meaning that which wins respect; the honest, honorable, worthy. * the right–meaning that which fulfills all our obligation to God and to other men. * the pure–meaning that which fits us for fellowship with and service to God, including but more than freedom from bodily sins. * the lovely–meaning that which is attractive and winsome. * the admirable–meaning that which is kind and likely to win others. These were considered excellent and praiseworthy qualities in Greek culture as well as among Christians. The Christian is not to be the “odd” man in society, but the ideal man. [The 365-Day Devotional Commentary] Thinking on these things causes one to think of Jesus. [Elder Steve House] What you think about in your unguarded moments reflects what your mind dwells upon. What you speak about when your guard is down is a good gauge of what is in your heart (Mt 12:34). Your mind needs exercise just as your physical body does. To keep your body healthy, you must be careful what you put into it, and you must exercise regularly. To keep your thoughts pure, you must guard what goes into your mind. To exercise your mind, you must contemplate things that are noble and truths that stretch your mind. Some Christians allow the world to fill their minds with ungodly thinking. Some people seem drawn to concentrate on the negative, choosing to be pessimistic about everything. Some remain satisfied with thinking of the mundane. Others fail to intentionally place Scripture in their thoughts, choosing instead to adopt human reasoning. Others, however, choose to expose their minds to the truths of God–to that which is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and good. The things you allow your mind to dwell on will be revealed by the way you live. If you focus on negative things, you will inevitably be a negative person. If you allow unholy thoughts to fill your mind, ungodliness will become common in your life. If you fill your mind with thoughts of Christ, you will become Christlike. What you fill your mind with is a matter of choice. Choose to concentrate on the magnificent truths of God, and they will create in you a noble character that brings glory to God. [Experiencing God Day by Day by Henry and Richard Blackaby re Phil. 4:8] Garbage In, Garbage Out: What we put into our minds determines what comes out in our words and actions. Paul tells us to program our minds with thoughts that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, commendable, virtuous, and praiseworthy. Do you have problems with impure thoughts and daydreams? Examine what you are putting into your mind through television, books, music, conversations, movies, and magazines. Replace harmful input with wholesome material. Above all, read God’s Word and pray. Ask God to help you focus your mind on what is good and pure. It takes practice, but it can be done. (Life Application Commentary Series) One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, “My son, the battle is between 2 wolves. One is Evil. It is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.” The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf wins? “The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.” [source unknown] REFERENCE: http://www.abible.com/devotions/2009/20090305-2133.html |
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