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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

…whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable…think about such things. Philippians 4:8

Listen: Philippians 4

TODAY’S MESSAGE

It is easy to start a negative thought cycle when feeling pressured. Paul understands what the Philippians are up against. He tells them they can experience God’s peace if they can renew their minds. Instead of a wandering mind, Paul wants the Philippians to train their mind to think about the right things.

The third heart decision we need to make is to renew our minds. Instead of thinking about whatever is false, wrong, polluted, ugly or shoddy—we need to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable.

That can be very difficult in today’s world. Whether it is the radio station we listen to in the car, the TV shows we watch at night or the way we use our phones, we need to make sure they aren’t focusing our thoughts in the wrong direction. If our favorite magazine, website, app or author takes our thoughts to places they shouldn’t go—we need to focus them on a better place.

When we allow our minds to wander, we are not creating a solid foundation that will help us find joy in the midst of pressure. Instead, we are training our mind to undermine the peace and joy God offers.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Think through the things that impact your thoughts. Maybe it is the radio, TV, movies, social media or your friends. Consider what one thing you could change in your daily routine to help you renew your mind. Write that down on page 46 in your journal and ask God to give you the strength to begin changing it.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.