QT 27 Apr 2020, Phil 4:8 and others, Wholesome thinking

Philippians 4 (ESV) —

1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. …

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; …

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

…, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. …, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. …

NOTE: The word in verse 8 for 'think about' is the Greek word, logizomai:

In classical usage, the term referred to the act of logical deliberation and the conclusion drawn from it. In some commercial contexts, it is used as a technical term for mathematical calculation or reckoning. (Fenlason, A. C. (2014). Lexham Theological Wordbook. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.)

Anything that references math has to be a good thing (spoken by a Mathematician). I also like the Amplified Bible take on the word, "Philippians 4:8 (AMP) — … think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]."

Also, wholesome conduct (vs 9) follows wholesome thinking (vs 8). The best thing to saturate you mind with is the word of God, but there are things of beauty: classical stories, wholesome music, art, photography, etc. Paul lists 8 different things in verse 8 suggesting multiple sources. I've always considered the Word as the primary and only source of good thinking, but that may be too confining. We need to saturate our mind with all sources of wholesome beauty.

PRAYER: Father, help me to continue to renew my mind through your word and wholesome thinking. Give me insights into different things I can do to ponder your beauty.