A beautiful mind -Whatever (Part 1)

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 

Over the course of two weeks in the US, I enjoyed the serenity and scenic beauty of the countryside as well as listening to great live music in the city.

There was a constant state of bliss and peace in my mind that allowed me to remain still at all times. Simply put, I was thinking less and just being in the moment. It is true that a nice environment can help calm our minds for a while, but in the end, what matters is what our minds are to dwell, think, and meditate upon no matter where we are and what we do. 

The Bible is a practical book, and in today's key verse Paul describes eight attributes that allow us to think of WHATEVER we like, as long as it falls within the attributes. We may use these eight attributes as filters or as boundaries. Boundaries do not restrict our belief or set of religious rules, but rather give us freedom within them. It might sound counterintuitive, but boundaries give us freedom; it is God's wisdom that the more we think about these attributes, the greater our freedom becomes.  

Boundaries help us keep the good in and the bad out.  This list of eight attributes is designed to help us keep the good in our thoughts and reject the bad that is contrary to the attributes. The result is that they can filter out sinful thoughts and ungodly motives, while learning what we can freely dwell on and thus reflect the glory of God. 

Our minds are powerful devices that direct our actions, decisions, and words, and Proverbs 23:7 says: "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he." What we think and what we put into our minds are so important. Rather than positive thinking, we need godly thinking. What does a godly thought life look like? 

My upcoming devotionals will explore each of the eight categories, hoping to deep dive into each attribute so that we can learn what God truly desires us to dwell upon. May God transform our minds so we can know the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

Blessing prayer: May the meditation be acceptable to you. By the power of the Holy Spirit, may you filter out what is contrary to God's desire and may our minds reflect your beauty and glory. In Jesus’, name, Amen