“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:8-9).

 

When I was a young girl, about twelve-years-old, I sat in class with many middle school-aged kids. I noticed a preacher standing at the door talking with my teacher. I intently looked and saw a familiar face; his name was Pastor George. I’ll never forget that moment because Pastor George had come to take me home to be with my family that day. As he was driving me and my siblings to our destination, he shared with us that our dad had gone home to be with Jesus. We silently sat through that drive all the way home; but as soon as my mother’s dear friend answered the front door, I burst into tears and fell into her arms. She speechlessly cried as she held me close. I felt God’s presence and His loving arms wrapped around me. I felt His safety and tender mercies as she cradled me and held me close. These past moments of my life are still vivid today, but as I reflect on God’s loving kindness throughout my life, my soul is satisfied. I think of how God not only rescued my family, but how He restored my joy over and over again.

 

Philippians 4:8-9 is precious to me because it has taken me ample time in practicing these profound life-giving words. When I have allowed myself to gaze on those things that are true; God's continual work in me, my mind is deterred from the difficulties of the past trails in life. Noble means honorable or what is worthy of respect. God is worthy of both respect and honor because He is the author and sustainer of life. He spoke the world into existence and fashioned each human being into His liking. He is “just.” Just, meaning God is always right. He can never be wrong. His awareness and righteousness surpasses the heavens (Deut. 16:20). Pure, meaning His intentions and motives are perfect! His thoughts, attitude, and conduct doesn’t fluctuate like that of the flesh. He is consistently consistent. No one can top His loyalty. Lovely, meaning no one can provoke Him. He is loving at all times. Even when Peter denied his Savior thrice, Jesus was not shaken or moved. When Peter sinned by cutting off the Roman soldier's ear as he sought to arrest Jesus, Jesus healed the ear of the soldier. Yes, God is full of love! A good report comprises the things and ideas of God’s goodness! God is forever Good! So, He does all things well. Good reports in Christ are the testimonies of our faith. To maintain our peace, we must practice peace. No one should be at war with a loving God because He is never at war with His children. He protects us in every possible way.

 

Each one of these qualities are worth considering, practicing and preparing for before those dire moments come into our lives. Let us think on these things.

 

Lord, help us to always remember not to dive into the bottom of the pit with impulse, fear, anger, worry, etc. Help us to fix our minds on the truth of Your word! In Jesus' name, Amen.

 

Encourage and Be Encouraged!