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Philippians 4: 8c – Things That Are Right

A man with a lantern follows a path inscribed with God's Word (Grok)

…whatever is right …think about such things. 

Summary: Thinking about “whatever is right” is really another way of saying that we are going to think about what God thinks is right. That is a good thing, but it is also good to be aware that not everyone will agree.  

So far, Paul has advocated for us to think about whatever is true and noble. Now he urges us to think about “whatever is right.” This sounds easy, but it begs the question, “What is ‘right’?”

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Philippians 4:8b – Things That Are Noble

Picture of a statue of Jesus on the cross, framed on Jesus head showing the crown of thorns. (Pixabay)

…whatever is noble…think about such things. 

Summary: Diving into Paul’s list of things to think about, he begins with the word “noble.” Looking closer, we discover that it has been a long time since we thought about this word.   

What kinds of things do you think about?

In our modern culture, we are bombarded with “things to think about” all day long. Ads on television and the internet scream for our attention. Vendors vie for our business by trying to get us to think about how much we need or want their products. 

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Philippians 4:8 – What Matters

Conceptual drawing of the Garden of Eden (Grok)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Summary: Paul’s instructions on what to think about reflect his understanding of what led Adam and Eve to sin in the Garden of Eden.   

There is a lot to ponder in this passage, but before we get into the details, it is useful to stand back and admire the whole verse. 

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Philippians 4:7b – Safe Haven

A small chick is held in a protective hand (Pixabay)

… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Summary: As we look at the second half of Paul’s verse about peace, we discover the dangers that confront us and how incredibly important the peace of God is.   

When Paul says “your hearts and your minds,” he is talking to you and me. Anyone who is a follower of Jesus Christ is entitled to this peace that Paul talks about. 

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Philippians 4:7a – The Peace of God

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding…

Picture of a cartoon-like police car. (Pixabay)

Summary: In this passage, Paul begins a promise with the words, “peace of God.” To understand the promise, we first have to understand the words.   

When Paul speaks of the “peace of God,” he is not just spouting a platitude. He is talking about something very real and extremely important to Christian living. 

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Philippians 4:6b – A Place of Prayer

… but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Summary: In this passage, it sounds like Paul is saying the same thing twice when he writes, “by prayer and petition.” As it turns out, there is a world of difference between the English version and the Greek.   

Have you ever wondered how to pray? 

In this passage, Paul gives us a short primer on the topic. In one sense, it is really quite simple; no matter where you are or what you are doing, pray. When you pray, be thankful. Always present your requests to God. 

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