Think on These Things

"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." - Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)

Our minds are like gardens—what we plant and nurture will grow. If you constantly focus on negativity, fears, and worst-case scenarios, it’s no surprise when anxiety takes root. But when you direct your thoughts toward what is true, noble, and lovely, you create an environment where peace can flourish.

I’m not saying you ignore your problems. Life is hard, and storms will come. But it’s about how you view those problems. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." This verse reminds us that God is at work in all things, even the hard things, for the good of those who love Him. If you focus only on the storm, you’ll miss the Savior walking toward you in the middle of it.

Paul tells us to meditate on what is true and praiseworthy. Now, that word meditate isn’t just a passing thought—it means to dwell deeply. It’s like a cow chewing its cud. I know that’s an unusual image, but think about it. A cow will chew on the same thing over and over, swallowing it, bringing it back up, and chewing again. That’s what meditation is. It’s returning to God’s truth all day long, letting it sink in and nourish your soul.

But here’s the problem. Many of us spend our days meditating on the wrong things. Think about the news cycle. Watching hours of fear-mongering and speculation only feeds anxiety. It’s like planting weeds in your garden. But what if you turned off the noise and instead focused on God’s promises?

Here’s what happens when you do that: The magnifying glass comes off your problems and is placed on God’s power to meet those problems. You begin to see your challenges differently. God doesn’t promise to remove every storm, but He does promise to work through every storm.

What are you planting in your mind today? Fear, or faith? Negativity, or truth? Remember, what you meditate on matters.

Reflection Question: How might your current challenges look different if viewed through the lens of God’s promises and character?

"Father, help me to see my circumstances the way You do. Teach me to meditate on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy so that my perspective aligns with Your promises. Transform my thinking and guide my thoughts toward Your peace. Thank You for working all things together for my good. In Jesus’ Name, amen."

Adapted from: "God's Answer for Worry": https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/2m83fmg/9-god-s-answer-for-worry