Philippians 4:8 (NIV) 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.
Main Idea: Respect every person as a work of art in the Master’s Gallery, and respect begins in the mind.
We are so wealthy. “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely, I have a delightful inheritance” (Psalm 16:6).
Being responsible and being philanthropic with that wealth. We don’t need a lot of money to live large and to live generously towards others.
I want us to think about serving others not just with our deeds but starting with our minds, with our thoughts.
Instead of allowing all that is negative in our world to depress and oppress us, let us take time to internalize what is true, excellent, praiseworthy, admirable, lovely about people and situations.
Dr King’s “I Have a Dream” speech was about mutual respect.
Why? Because the words in Psalm 139, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” don’t apply to a select group of folks. It applies to all the people God has made.
Why? Because Jesus died for that person. He thought they were valuable enough to give His life for them. Whether they accept or reject His gift offer is ultimately between them and God, but God loved them enough to offer it.
Why? Because we have no idea what they could become.
This exhortation is a divine remedy for the bad “isms,” like racism, sexism, cynicism, skepticism, and pessimism.”
Philippians 4:8 exhort us to see beyond our prejudices. Prejudices come in all sizes, shapes and colors.
How we treat others starts in the mind.
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