Thursday Inspiration - think of these things

Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. – Philippians 4:8

This one scripture verse seems to be the reverse of our popular culture’s focus. Charlie Sheen’s antics get more press than the parent whose sacrifices go untold, a child’s innocence, or a toddler’s wonder at the world. We should think of things that are true, honorable, and just, not of the singer who trashed a studio room or the football player who was thrown out of a mall. By starting to think of these things that are pure, lovely, and gracious, we are invited to go one step further and think about the Giver of all that is worthy of praise – God. And what we think about changes who we are and how we act. Maybe it’s just me, but when I consciously fix my mind on God, I love better, even though I love imperfectly and not always.

What is honorable, just, pure, lovely, gracious, excellent and worthy to be praised in your life?  Think about these things and praise God for them.