“Finally, brothers and sisters, 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” (Philippians 4:8).
This instruction is for attitude management and thought discipline. It is a prescription for treatment against the bad “isms,” like racism, sexism, cynicism, skepticism and pessimism.
It is not a call to look at the world through rose-colored glasses, oblivious to its wrongs. Nor is it a call to be blind or gullible about personal relationship matters. It is not directing us to be unguarded with people who are harmful or have proven to be untrustworthy. It is not a political position, but it includes Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, and everyone else. For it is addressing every believer in Jesus Christ and is speaking to the attitude with which we approach people, situations, and the way we navigate our lives in general.
For example, we are directed to let whatever is true about a person reign over our prejudice. To let facts rule over presumption. Or, if we have a personal disagreement with someone, don’t assume their intentions are selfish or evil. If we must correct someone’s behavior, is there anything excellent or praiseworthy we can also point out? As we address injustices in our country, let us also consider what is admirable about it. Instead of allowing all that is negative in our world to depress and oppress us, let us take time to internalize what is lovely.
My daughter showed me the Black History month presentation she made for her 7th grade students, and it contained a 3-minute excerpt of a speech given by the late congressman John Lewis. Regardless of our view of his politics, the attitude and heart that he communicates in this personal story is a wonderful example of the qualities mentioned above and therefore instructive to all of us. I have attached the link to it below.
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