Reflect on These Things

The phrase "Reflect on These Things" is derived from the Apostle Paul's exhortation in his letter to the Philippians. In Philippians 4:8, Paul writes, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things" . This passage serves as a guiding principle for Christian thought and meditation, encouraging believers to focus their minds on virtues that align with God's character and will.

Context and Background

The Epistle to the Philippians is one of Paul's prison letters, written during his imprisonment in Rome around A.D. 60-62. Despite his circumstances, Paul emphasizes joy, peace, and contentment throughout the letter. Philippians 4:8 is part of a broader section where Paul addresses anxiety and the peace of God, urging the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord and to present their requests to God through prayer and supplication (Philippians 4:4-7).

Theological Significance

The call to "think on these things" underscores the importance of the mind in the Christian life. The New Testament frequently highlights the transformation of the mind as essential to spiritual growth and maturity. Romans 12:2, for example, instructs believers to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. By focusing on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy, Christians align their thoughts with God's truth and cultivate a mindset that fosters spiritual health and holiness.

Virtues to Reflect Upon

1. True: This refers to what is in accordance with fact or reality, aligning with God's truth as revealed in Scripture. Jesus Himself is described as "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6), making truth foundational to Christian belief and practice.

2. Honorable: This virtue pertains to what is worthy of respect and reverence. It calls believers to consider things that are dignified and noble, reflecting the character of God.

3. Right: Also translated as "just," this term emphasizes righteousness and fairness. It encourages believers to focus on what is morally right and in accordance with God's standards.

4. Pure: Purity involves moral cleanliness and innocence. Christians are called to maintain purity in thought and action, reflecting the holiness of God.

5. Lovely: This virtue encompasses what is pleasing and agreeable, promoting peace and harmony. It invites believers to appreciate beauty and goodness in God's creation and in human relationships.

6. Admirable: Also translated as "commendable," this term refers to what is deserving of approval and praise. It encourages believers to focus on actions and thoughts that are worthy of admiration.

7. Excellent: Excellence involves surpassing ordinary standards, striving for the highest quality in moral and spiritual matters. It reflects the pursuit of virtue and godliness.

8. Praiseworthy: This virtue pertains to what is worthy of praise, both from God and from others. It calls believers to engage in thoughts and actions that bring glory to God.

Practical Application

Reflecting on these virtues requires intentionality and discipline. Christians are encouraged to meditate on Scripture, engage in prayer, and cultivate an environment that fosters godly thinking. This may involve surrounding oneself with edifying influences, such as Christian fellowship, worship, and service. By focusing on these virtues, believers can experience the peace of God, which guards their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).

Conclusion

The exhortation to "reflect on these things" serves as a timeless reminder of the power of the mind in shaping one's spiritual life. By aligning their thoughts with the virtues outlined in Philippians 4:8, Christians can cultivate a mindset that honors God and promotes spiritual growth.

Topical Bible: Reflect on These Things

 

[Margery]

I love Phil 4:8. When I'm inclined to ruminate on the stuff I don't like happening in politics, the church or stuff around me, this verse reminds to to set my mind on things above. Col 3:2

 

[1LoverofGod]

Its so easy to take our focus off of God when we have our thoughts on our problems and sorrows, our aspirations in things in this world, worries that consume our thoughts, etc.

Some of these things that fill our thoughts at times can be unavoidable, but striving to have God at the center of our every thought and allowing The Holy Spirit to lead us and practicing the fruit of The Spirit regularly helps us to be mindful of the things of God such as mentioned in the verses of Philippians 4:8 and it will return with rich blessings.

You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.
Isaiah 26:3

 

[1LoverofGod]

*** I love this example of how we Can keep the things of God in our minds even when faced with troubles.
Paul and Silas didnt focus on having been imprisoned for doing the work of The Lord, nor were they worrying about what could happen next. They continued keeping their focus on the things of God and ministering to their jailers and that led to the salvation of one of the jailers and his family and they were Divingly released from prison.
Keeping focus on God at all times Does return with blessings.***

Paul and Silas Imprisoned​

16 Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling.
17 This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.”
18 And this she did for many days.

But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour.
19 But when her masters saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities.

20 And they brought them to the magistrates, and said, “These men, being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city;
21 and they teach customs which are not lawful for us, being Romans, to receive or observe.”
22 Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods.
23 And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely.
24 Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

The Philippian Jailer Saved​

25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.
26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.
27 And the keeper of the prison, awaking from sleep and seeing the prison doors open, supposing the prisoners had fled, drew his sword and was about to kill himself.
28 But Paul called with a loud voice, saying, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here.”

29 Then he called for a light, ran in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas.
30 And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”

31 So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.
33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized.
34 Now when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household.
Acts 16:16-34

 

[mattfivefour]

I love Phil 4:8. When I'm inclined to ruminate on the stuff I don't like happening in politics, the church or stuff around me, this verse reminds to to set my mind on things above. Col 3:2

I agree, @Margery. It is this that keeps us centered in the midst of chaos. Thank you for posting the original article, @1LoverofGod. It is an excellent teaching.