HABIT #3: Think on noble things.

READ IT

“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. . . . I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” (Philippians 4:8,12)

The capacity of the human brain is the subject of ever-widening scientific wonder. Its twelve to fourteen billion cells are only a shadow of its complexity, because each cell sends out thousands of connecting tendrils so that a single cell may be connected with 10,000 neighboring cells, each of which is constantly exchanging data impulses. These twelve to fourteen billion brain cells times 10,000 connectors make the human mind an unparalleled computer. The mind’s activity has been compared to 1,000 switchboards, each big enough to serve New York City, all running at full speed as they receive and send questions and orders. Put another way, there is more electronic equivalent in one human brain than in all the radio and television stations of the entire world put together!*

The power that God infused into the human mind is beyond comprehension. Used properly, that power can bring light and wholeness to not just your life, it can shine a light of peace and contentment to all around you. But without the control and order that comes from God, our mind will run amok inside of us, leaving chaos and misery in its wake.

Just as you choose to be joyful (habit #1), you choose what you think about. When you choose to dwell on noble things, good things, wholesome things, don’t be surprised when contentment follows.

WRITE IT

Share in the comments below and answer this question, “What is an example of something noble, right, lovely or admirable that you can choose to dwell on today that could lead to contentment?”

PRAY IT

Jesus, would you guard my mind and direct my thoughts to dwell on noble things today. Amen.

LIVE IT

Write out Philippians 4:8 on a notecard and carry it with you today. Put it in a place where you can see it often. Whenever you catch yourself dwelling on negative thoughts, read Philippians 4:8 as an anchor to keep your mind where it needs to be today.

Use #phil4challenge to spread the word about the Philippians 4 Challenge!

*Hughes, Kent R. (2007-10-31). Philippians: The Fellowship of the Gospel (Preaching the Word) (Kindle Locations 2894-2899). Good News Publishers. Kindle Edition.