As a Man Thinks…

“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”  Philippians 4:8

Proverbs 23:7 tells us that whatever we think in our hearts, that’s what we are.  It is difficult to stay positive in these days of pandemic, political upheaval, and general pessimism among the masses.  We spend way too much time dwelling on the negative issues of life.  Television, radio, and internet news, depressing movies and TV shows, and sad stories about real people all contribute to our negativity and melancholy.  Good news doesn’t sell advertising.  The motto in the news industry is “if it bleeds, it leads”.  Politicians apparently want us to stay upset all the time at one party or the other depending on who’s in charge.  Depressed people don’t like for others to be happy so they do their best to make them miserable.  As they say, “Misery loves company”.  But I have discovered that no one wants to come to my “pity party”, thus I can be miserable all by myself–unless, I choose not to be.

With all of this in mind, how can we choose to forego misery and experience a positive outlook on life?  It’s all in our thought life.  Instead of pondering the past, being perturbed about the present, or fretting over the future, let’s take the Apostle Paul’s admonition to think positive and uplifting thoughts.  Think on what is true, not on the rumors or “what ifs” of life.  Think on things that are honest, including those folks that we know who are trustworthy, those on whom we can depend.  Think about justice–what is right and fair.  Think about purity, those things that are simple, clear, and genuine.  Let’s think on things that are lovely, not just a beautiful piece of art, but about folks who need our love and kindness.  Let us seek to be persons of delight, those whom others enjoy being around.  And last, let’s keep focused on things of good report, all the blessings of our lives, all our loved ones, friends, and neighbors, and all those with whom we meet each day knowing that God loves them and expects us to do the same.

Virtue, that is, moral excellence, is found in the lives of those who put these Christlike attributes into practice consistently and with determination.  As we endeavor to follow God’s prescription for a joyous and fulfilled life, our efforts become praises to the Lord.