Dwell on These Things

 Dwell on These Things

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things (Philippians 4:6-8 NAS95).

The command to dwell on these things is a present middle imperative. This is a command that is to be followed continually, not a one-time event. In other words we are to make this a way of life. We are to focus our attention on those things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, of excellence, and praise worthy.

This is very important for every believer as this command follows the command to be anxious for nothing (Philippians 4:8). If we are anxious, we are concentrating on negative ideas. God wants us to focus on good things, holy ideals. Yes, there will be serious concerns for which prayer is offered as the solution. However, notice this prayer is to be offered with thanksgiving. 

If we can remember to turn our attention to godly ideals, things that we know are true, we will find it much easier to be thankful in the midst of our troubles. The blessing of peace will come to those who practice this. Christ will guard your heart and mind. Amen.