Philippians 4:6-8 is one of the best known and most loved passages in all of the Bible. It offers succinctly our solution to worry. However, as I read Dr. David Jeremiah’s comments below, I began to see it in a new and simpler way. This is especially true of verse 8, as that long “list” of things to think on always left me feeling a bit bewildered! Have a read and see what I mean.
Turning Point-Dr. David Jeremiah - Tuesday, December 17, 2019 - A Peaceful Mind
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true…, noble…, just…, pure…, lovely…, of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8
Recommended Reading: Philippians 4:4-8
In Philippians 4, the apostle Paul revealed his plan for having a peaceful mind. He told us to rejoice in the Lord (verse 4), to remember the Lord is at hand (verse 5), and to pray with petition and thanksgiving (verse 6). He also told us to meditate on things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. That can only mean one thing—meditating on the Word.
The Bible is God’s written Word, and Jesus is His living Word. Whatever our concerns and anxieties, we must place our thoughts on the words of the Bible and the Savior from heaven. That doesn’t mean we ignore our problems. It means we put them in the right perspective by giving our primary mental energy to Him who can solve the issues of life.
Anxiety is difficult to manage, but foundational to every treatment is the memorization and meditation of Scripture. When the Word of God is coursing through our mind day and night, it keeps our thoughts filtered and pure and clean. Find a verse today and focus your thoughts on it all day and all night.