S – 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

Philippians 4:8

O – Commentary:

Six items are mentioned as objects of a wholesome thought life, and each one is introduced with whatever. In the Greek “whatever” is plural, which suggests that several things could be included under each heading.

True (alēthē) things are of course the opposite of dishonest and unreliable things (cf. Eph. 4:15, 25). Noble refers to what is dignified and worthy of respect (this word semna is used in the NT only here and in 1 Tim. 3:8, 11; Titus 2:2). Right refers to conformity to God’s standards. Pure (hagna) refers to what is wholesome, not mixed with moral impurity. Lovely (prosphilē, occurring only here in the NT) speaks of what promotes peace rather than conflict. Admirable (euphēma, also used only here) relates to what is positive and constructive rather than negative and destructive.

These six objects of thought are then described as excellent (aretē) and praiseworthy (epainos).

 Robert P. Lightner, “Philippians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 664.

A – It would be a tremendous accomplishment to discipline one’s mind to think only on these things.  If one area seems to be the biggest challenge, focus on moving that area closer to the principle that Paul described.  In our lifetime we can improve in each of these areas.

R – Heavenly Father, we worship and surrender to you.  Thank you for the gifts of our minds.  Help us to grow in each of these areas so our thoughts are healthy and vibrant.