Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at least you have revived your concern for me, indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it. Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what is it to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need.

Philippians 4:4-13

Is your life so focused on activity that you do not have time to think? Paul told his followers to meditate on things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. What would happen if we began this kind of thinking together in our churches and homes? We might discover creative, God-given approaches to problems that seem to defy solution. Our perspective on life might even undergo a radical change. Paul tells us to "think about these things." It is a great command. Obeying it with our families and other believers could open doors of discovery for helping others, serving God, and living for Him. That is something to think about.

Right thinking leads to right living.

Our Daily Bread – September 28, 2004