Useful Bible Studies > Philippians Commentary > chapter 4
Paul has warned us not to allow worry and anxious thoughts to fill our minds (4:6). Instead we can know God’s peace, a calm and content attitude that protects our minds and our thoughts (4:7). So now Paul explains the kind of thoughts that deserve a Christian’s attention. Of course Christians must think about many other things too; they often need to be aware of the things that are happening in the world round them (2 Corinthians 2:11). However, the subjects in Paul’s list will direct their thoughts towards those things that please God. These subjects will direct them away from doubts and worries and fear.
So, Christians should love all that is true, honest and sincere. They should approve of those things that are noble and honourable; they should refuse to think about foolish and unwise matters. Their thoughts should be of those things that God declares to be right and proper. They should not mix good and bad thoughts; rather, their thoughts should be pure and modest, with nothing that could give the Christian a guilty conscience. Those things that have the character of true Christian love (1 Corinthians chapter 13) should constantly attract them. Finally, Christians should think about those things of which everyone should approve, for example, good and generous acts.
Those are the things that are truly excellent. Such matters are the things that truly deserve our praise. So those are the subjects to which Christians should give special attention. When they think about such things, their thoughts cannot be false or foolish, shameful or wrong.
Next part: The gospel changes lives in the best way (Philippians 4:9)
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