Philippians 4:8 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.
Our world is filled with unpleasant things. Very seldom can you turn on the TV or listen to the radio without hearing or seeing something that is grotesque or vulgar. Our society thrives on things that are more than just offensive, and because of this I often find myself at war with the world. It is so hard to live a Christian life when everyday things can seem like a constant battle against sin. Not only can it be a struggle to find a "clean" TV show or "clean" secular music, but it can be a struggle to surround yourself with people who strive to do what Paul is talking about in this verse. We are ALL sinners. We all succumb to gossip, jealousy, greed...the list goes on. The good news is God allows us to make choices in our lives that make it easier to live for Him. Sometimes we just have to pick up that remote and change the channel!! Not just on TV, but in our everyday lives. We control our thoughts, words, and actions. If we constantly subject ourselves to temptation, then chances are we will fail. However, if we constantly subject ourselves to His word, and strive to make Him the center of our hearts and minds then we WILL overcome!
After reading this verse in my devotion I have begun to question everything I do. Even if I am doing household chores, I ask myself if what I'm doing can be described by one of the words Paul used. Even when doing household chores I try to make them more excellent & praiseworthy by being thankful for the opportunity to do them! (Although with some chores I'm still working on it!) Try thinking about this verse for one whole day and see how much you decide to change in your life!
Another great verse to think about is Psalm 19:14.
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
I really enjoyed this brief word. You really hit home with your thoughts. I haven't read all the post but I think you should create your own devotional book. May God continue to use you.
ReplyDeleteIt is so true that we need to pick up the remote and change the channel in our lives sometimes! I have caught myself recently wanting to take back my actions and my words. I need to think more about what Paul is saying before I act/speak. Thank you for reminding me! God is so good to be working through you for others' lives! :)
ReplyDeleteJessica I think you should continue this blog after the class. It is very motivating and inspirational. When talking about Paul I am reminded of a children's moment. They used toothpaste and squirted it out then wanted to have a child put it back in the tube. It couldn't be done, just like us talking before we think. You cannot take the words back. Thank you Jessica!
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