Program the Mind. Philippians 4:8. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think of these things.” How do we go about bringing the control of our minds to focus on the things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report? How do we know what these things really are? That is what the previous part of the Book of Philippians is about. We need a definite, concrete, and unchangeable example of all these qualities in a human being to emulate. That Person is our Lord Jesus Christ. We are told what was in His mind in chapter two. He is the Perfect Man who was truly here on earth. The Holy Spirit dwelling in those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ has made us partakers of His divine nature. It is His will that we reproduce these qualities in ourselves.
This is why meditation is such an essential part of our daily practice as Christians. Our intentional, conscious effort cultivates the qualities mentioned in this verse. When we choose to focus on the positive aspects of those around us instead of their failures and faults—if we actively look for them—that will foster a Christlike fellowship with the God of peace. Compassion will replace criticism, and fellowship will replace faultfinding.
Deliberate meditation on these things is a choice we make. What we think we are may not be what we truly are. However, what we think, we are. We are constantly filling our minds with information, illustrations, and imagination. It is our responsibility to fill our minds with what is good because we become like the things we choose to reflect on and meditate upon. What we occupy our minds with will soon show up in our words and actions. It is sobering but true that what I allow into my mind through reading, looking, hearing, tasting, and touching—through all our senses—will stay inside my mind. Therefore, I must apply a moral and spiritual filter to my choices before allowing anything in.
The items listed here overlap, which helps emphasize their importance. Things that are true are honest. Things that are honest are noble, honorable, and motivate us to do our best. Things that are just are right and fair. Things that are pure are acceptable to God as well as to people. Things that are lovely are attractive and encourage others to emulate that object or person. Things that are of good report are graceful words and appealing actions. The result is virtue in character and admirable conduct. All these qualities are commendable and excellent. When they are embodied in a believer, our Lord Jesus Christ is subtly exemplified through His followers and is honored.
Like a continuous stream of water lined up one after another, the things that influence my life flow as I gather information. They march like an invading army taking over my mind, and when they enter my storehouse of thoughts, they find permanent places to either instruct, bless, and benefit me or to pollute and poison my mind. The choice is up to me regarding what I let in. Those things are not content just to be there; they want to take control, which isn't necessarily bad if those thoughts are a blessing to my soul. The thoughts that run the “control tower” of my mind come through my senses. Depending on what I have allowed to be taken in, my mind uses that to control and direct my actions.
What I read, see, and say influence what comes to the front of my mind and, in turn, my actions. These actions affect my testimony as a believer and my character as a child of God. The material I absorb can either foster spiritual growth and usefulness for my Lord or hinder it permanently. Morally pure and holy things can build strong character traits that last and help me become more like Christ. Ultimately, what fills my mind shapes my speech and actions.
Things that are honest and true will benefit any business I operate. Just and noble thoughts can’t be hidden; they will always become clear through what I say and do. Pure and morally upright thoughts reflect my integrity, which influences my reputation and shows what I think of my Lord and Savior. Lovely thoughts are Christ-like; they reveal the new nature within me. Good reports are admirable reactions to what I hear. They can bless others when they testify to God’s mercy and grace, and I speak the truth in love. All these positive qualities are present, waiting to be welcomed and used for good. When they govern my mind, my soul, and my life, everything will be as it should be.
What we put into our minds is what will come out. God's peace does keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus, but we are responsible for controlling our thought life. It is up to us to focus on the worthy thoughts of verse eight so that we will perform the worthy deeds mentioned in verse nine. The new affection that comes with God's peace helps us overcome the power and control of negative thinking that often takes over God's people.