Take from “Jesus First 365 Devotions to Start Your Day” from BroadStreet Publishing https://bit.ly/JesusFirstdevotional
Philippians 4:8
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
These Things
Have you ever been overwhelmed by what you should focus on as a follower of Jesus? Wishing you knew exactly how to love him and live according to his ways? Sometimes, we can overlook the inner life in favor of focusing on our lives’ practices and outer fruit. But Jesus said that out of the heart’s overflow, the mouth speaks. What we focus on will affect how we live.
The above list of attributes is a great way to evaluate the fruit of our minds. Whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, etc., will produce good fruit in our lives, from our relationships to our general satisfaction with life. So, let’s dwell on things that honor the kingdom of God and point us back to Jesus. Is there anything that gives hope? Is there something that encourages you? Think about such things.
Prayer:
Dearest Jesus, I want to honor you with my thoughts as much as in any other area of my life. I submit my mind to you, and I give you access to my ideas and beliefs. Reveal yourself through the fruit of your Spirit in my thoughts.
RW Comments: I am currently doing this devotional study on YouVersion Bible app and this particular one speaks to the Wednesday night study, “Who are you Following? “, I am doing with the kiddos. Sadie Robertson Huff is the author/presenter, and the kiddos seem to listen to what she is telling them about who they follow on social media plays a huge influence on how they live out their lives. If they are more focused on following the coolest, funniest trend on TikTok that will be what they will probably emulate in life. But if they are focused on knowing a loving and approachable Savior, their fruit will display that growth. It is my prayer and hope for all the kiddos to end this study with that goal in mind.