Be Peaceful

If we are to be mature in our thinking as Paul exhorts in 1 Corinthians, then we must surely think on things that are honorable, etc.  With that in mind, consider the things upon which we are exhorted to think in Philippians 4:8.

I.  We are to think on things that are true.

     Here we are primarily encouraged to think on the Word of God itself, for it is true.  Of course, we are also to focus our attention on the Lord Jesus Christ, for He is the truth (John 14:6).

II.  We are to think on things that are honorable.

     This word could be rendered, noble, dignified, honest, or worthy of respect.

III.  We are to think on things that are just.

     This word means what is right or even righteous.  We are to think on things that are in accord with the will of God.

IV.  We are to think on things that are pure.

     The word rendered pure could also be translated holy, undefiled, or morally clean.  It describes that which is free from sin.

V.  We are to think on things that are lovely.

     Again, to get a better grasp of the meaning of the word, we could translate it as sweet, gracious, generous, or patient.

VI.  We are to think on things that are commendable.

     The KJV translates this "of good report."  We can imagine that the Philippian church had filled itself with gossip in light of the division between Euodia and Syntyche, but rather than think and speak in these terms, the church was to think on commendable things.