Whatever is Pure

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, 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.

Our minds are a HUGE battle ground – so much of the spiritual life is won or lost in our thoughts. That is why lust is considered adultery, and hate considered murder. Our thoughts are what trigger so much in us – most everything starts with just a thought, a day-dream, a consideration. Yet, this is one of the most difficult areas in our lives to master and control.

The Bible tells us that we are to think on such things that are excellent or praiseworthy, but how can we do that when our brains are being dominated by thoughts that seem to be out of our control? Well, first, we MUST give our every thought, our every dream, our every desire to God. We must give Him permission to direct us and re-direct us as we need. Then, when He taps us on the shoulder to let us know that we are headed down a dangerous road, we must make a concerted effort to think on something true, noble, right, pure, and lovely.

We must also fill our thoughts with the Word of God. There is no better way to affect change from the inside out. We must read it, meditate on it, memorize it. As our minds take in this Manna from heaven, our thoughts will begin to change in response. It will become much easier with each passing to day to keep a smile on our faces, to handle difficult times, and all the challenges that we face. As we begin to view the world through the words of God, our whole lives will change.

It will take a lot of practice, and re-direction on God’s part, and our willingness to cooperate, but it will be so worth it! There will be many days when we would rather sleep than get up a little early to read our Bibles. We will struggle and muddle through, but each day it will get easier, as we begin to see the changes in all that we are. Our hearts and actions will begin to change in reflection of all that is changing in our minds. Our whole countenance will reflect Christ in a dazzling array of the glory and love of God. Then, all that we face will be seen through the "rose-colored glass" that is the Word of God.