Whatever is Lovely

Philippians 4:8-9
Finally, brothers and sisters, 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. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

A penny for your thoughts.

As the snow flew and the ice pelted the ground, I browned hamburger in my soup pot. I crushed stewed tomatoes and chopped potatoes. The mixed vegetables cooked in the microwave, while I prepared the rest. With salt and pepper, I mixed all the ingredients with tomato juice and set the pot to simmer.

What if I’d added dirt or dried, crunchy maple leaves? How about an old shoe or a stinky sock? Disgusting… right? I wanted the soup to be edible and tasty, but if I’d added something other than the delicious vegetables, no one would partake of the soup.

In the times we’re living, what am I allowing into my brain? Or my heart? Like my soup, am I adding ingredients that will make me sick? Not just physically, but heartsick.

With the news and social media constantly throwing drama, pessimism, gloom, and despair at us, how do we fight back?

Paul encouraged the Philippian church to think about positive, uplifting things, instead of negative and stressful. The apostle worked to set a positive example for his friends. He focused on what’s true, pure, and admirable.

Paul’s words make me pause and consider what I allow into my head and heart. Am I contemplating God’s truth or the thoughts the media spouts? Am I reading, watching, or listening to things that encourage and glorify God? Does my heart fill with joy as I take in these things? Do I delight in the lovely?

And how do the things I think about bless others?

I need to answer these questions and determine whether I’ll have the peace of God in my heart or stress and anxiety.

Strive to embrace God’s hope and peace.

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