Phillipians 4:8

Philippians 4:8 is a familiar verse from the Bible that my dad often quoted to me at various times when I was growing up. Well, he didn't exactly quote the whole thing but he would say "Whatsoever...." (King James) and I knew what that meant. Looking back I can see this was a little code word we shared. This verse encourages us to focus on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. This verse is often called the "thinking verse" because it encourages us to think about things that are positive and uplifting, rather than dwelling on negative thoughts and emotions.

The verse begins by urging us to focus on what is true. This means focusing on things that are real and authentic, rather than on falsehoods or deceit. We are also encouraged to focus on what is honorable, which means things that are morally upright and virtuous. 

Next, we are encouraged to focus on what is just, which means things that are fair and equitable. We are also urged to focus on what is pure, which means things that are morally clean and unblemished.

Additionally, we are encouraged to focus on what is lovely, which means things that are beautiful and pleasing to the senses. We are also urged to focus on what is commendable, which means things that are worthy of praise and admiration.

Finally, we are encouraged to focus on what is excellent and praiseworthy. This means focusing on things that are of high quality and that are worthy of our attention and admiration.

I must admit that dad’s admonishment of this verse in my life has caused me to pause more than once before taking in a particular TV show or movie. There are many shows I would never consider to watch because they come with the rating of R or MA. I immediately know they will not fit into these parameters. 

Science is now catching up to what God's word has told us....Your mind literally expands on 'whatever' you focus on. I'm very thankful to have been taught from an early age to focus on the above list. I believe it has made life so much better. What are you focusing on? You have a choice. 

Philippians 4:8 is a verse that encourages us to focus on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. By doing so, we can cultivate a positive and uplifting mindset that encourages good. 

I hope you have the best day ever!