By Morris Vickers.
“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things” – Philippians 4:8 NASB.
Paul, the disciple of Jesus, loved the church at Philippi probably more than any congregation in his ministry. It was in Philippi he and Silas were beaten and thrown into prison. They were released from their chains by an earthquake during the night as they prayed and sang hymns to God. It was the jailer who asked “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Their historic answer, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Acts 16: 30 & 31.
If there is one thing we learn from reading the New Testament account of Jesus ministry and the development of the church it is: No one said it would be easy or painless to follow Jesus. No one said participating with the church would always be stress free.
How we respond to life; especially to pain, disappointment, and injustice, shapes not only our lives but to all others in contact with us. It was the presence of Christ in his life that enabled Paul to respond as he did. Praying and singing praises to God was possible because his purpose in life was greater than his personal comfort.
Paul had reason to complain, become angry, depressed, withdrawn, and/or hostile. His ministry was opposed by various authorities and business interests. He suffered physical attacks. And, within the church family, personality issues and differences of understanding what it means to be a Christian were a distraction.
He chooses instead to encourage harmony among the Philippi church members. He advises a “gentle spirit”, prayer about what contributes to anxiety, and “whatever”. The “whatevers” focus on truth, honor, righteousness, purity, love, reputation, and praise worthy values. Imagine filling your mind and time with thoughts that satisfy the “whatevers”.
What has your past week been like? What challenges, disappointments, and disagreements have you experienced? Who or what has caused pain? What has been your response? What has been the focus of your thinking? How has it influenced others?
Morris and his wife, Twyla, recently joined Grace Hills. Morris has been in full-time ministry for many years, serving as a pastor to several churches and a lengthy tenure as an associational Director of Missions in Maryland.