by kim danielsonauthor of Piece by Piece: A life remembered through lost things
4:8 practice
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is beautiful, whatever is admirable, whatever is excellent, whatever is worthy of praise, think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
Life these days is like a spin cycle.
Everything is moving at such a fast and chaotic pace that we are overstimulated and busier than ever.
We live in a culture that celebrates work and accomplishment, and digital advances have allowed work to fill time that should be reserved for relationships, recreation, worship, and sleep. We are also constantly bombarded with entertainment, social media, and news, telling people what to buy, what to wear, what to eat, and what to believe.
It’s very noisy. There are many voices saying that.
We weren’t designed to know this much about the world.
Before technology brought the news of the world into our homes and the tragedies and suffering of others into our hearts, we never carried such a heavy burden. We lived in small communities known only to our families and neighbors. We were unaware of the pain and strife in the whole world.
Having such awareness is not a bad thing. It increases our compassion and empathy and broadens our perspective to other cultures and ways of life. It moves us to action, generosity, and service.
But much of what we see, hear, and read is junk, designed to keep us scrolling and spending time and resources.
It is often an unbearable weight, and it is almost impossible not to feel anxious or discouraged. Just being human in this world is difficult.
So what should I do?
Unfortunately, we cannot control the world around us.
But we can pay attention to our thoughts. We can practice cultivating our minds about things that are worth our attention. It requires focus and dedication, but it is a practice that brings peace, patience, and hope.
Our thoughts control our words and actions. Everything is downstream of our thinking. Therefore, we need to start with our thoughts and manage our opinions better.
The apostle Paul gives us eight touchstones, eight categories of things we should focus on.
The truth. What is objectively undeniable and irrefutable? It’s not just the facts. We live in an era where the truth of the world is constantly changing. Instead, think about something real and trustworthy, like God’s love and promises.
Something noble. Think about it being respect and dignity. We see a lot of degrading and humiliating things. Instead, choose to think about honorable things, like caring for your elders and advocating on behalf of the weak.
The right thing. Our hearts know something is wrong. The Spirit prompts us. Sometimes we listen. Watch what you consume (what you watch, hear, and read) because your thoughts drive your actions. Don’t waste your precious time and energy.
Something pure. There is a lot of garbage in the world. Will you be able to find the real thing among the garbage?Fake things won’t last. Imitation always fails. Protect your ideas from corruption.
nice stuff. Look out the window. Creation is full of incredible beauty. Think about the people you love and your favorite memories with them.
something worthy of praise. This is not about comparison, envy, or jealousy, but about things worthy of respect. Like showing good character when no one is looking.
Excellent stuff. Must have high standards. Be the gatekeeper of your own heart.
something worthy of praise. Find a story of goodness. Mr. Rogers once famously said, “Look for people who can help you.” There are stories of courage and compassion in this world. Read those stories. Tell those stories again.
Our thoughts are very powerful. Our thoughts inspire our words and actions. They are the tip of the spear, the first movement that sets everything else in motion.
There are so many things competing for the sacred space of our hearts. However, that space is limited. And you need to be intentional and purposeful about what you allow in there.
The practice Philippians 4:8 suggests can soothe us when we feel out of control, when the world doesn’t make sense, and when everything around us sounds distorted and deafening. Use 4:8 to refine, refine, and improve your thinking.
Practicing the 4:8 will help you be more thoughtful and considerate. We see clearly and reach for higher than low-hanging fruit.
Respecting yourself, clearing the dirt, and making space for what is honest is a practice and a daily re-work.
You are certainly worth it.
Author bio:
Kim Danielson has practiced on both ends of the law, first as a public defender and then as a corporate attorney. In 2019, she founded a nonprofit organization to support teachers affected by cancer. In all of her work, she has witnessed countless examples of transformation resulting from loss. This restoration is a major undercurrent in her writing and life. She lives in Denver with her family. her debut memoir, Piece by Piece: A life remembered through lost thingscurrently available.
Source: Spiritual Media Blog – www.spiritualmediablog.com
