Think Good

"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" (Philip. 4:8). With all of the negativity about so many things flying around these days, I find these simplistic but powerful words of the apostle Paul to be about as fitting as can be. The only things that fit the preceeding scriptures are the things that are truly of God, because those things are infinite; and so there’s really no excuse to dwell on anything to the contrary. Without doubt someone will say something like, “Yeah that’s great, but I’ve got a lot of real problems!” So do I, but that only brings us around to this: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God” (Rom. 8:28). Think about what God has already done for you with thanksgiving, and thereby give him space to do more. Think about what he has created for all of our good and enjoyment; and thankfulness is sure to follow. Think about the untold magnitude of his longsuffering, and how he still reaches out to a world that has turned vehemently away from him, and godly fear will surely set in.

Take a look around and see some of the afflictions and catastrophes that a whole lot of folks are dealing with, and I’m certain that a renewed appreciation of God’s loving kindness and care will follow. Instead of looking for a reason to find something wrong about someone, try to find something right about them (Mat. 7:1,2). I’m sure it’s there. Magnify the good and diminish the bad, “for charity shall cover the multitude of sins” (I Pet. 4:8). Truly my friend, we are without excuse to follow the admonition of our opening scripture passage. And in conclusion, let us once again be admonished by the inspired words of the same great apostle: “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Rom. 8:5,6). And again, Moses gave us instruction very much like the above: “ I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live” (Deut. 30:19). Sounds like an easy choice to me, how about you?Amen.