Quiet Contemplation - Day 24

Psalm 19:14 (NIV)

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

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.

            We have looked at the first four words, and we have selected verses to help us remember how to focus on these attributes. Now let us consider the remaining four words. Again, these are just the immediate thoughts that come to my mind. I encourage you to find verses that are meaningful to you.

True – Noble – Right – Pure – Lovely – Admirable – Excellent – Praiseworthy

            When I think about things that are lovely, one of my first thoughts is the beauty of all creation. I enjoy the beauty of sunrises and sunsets, the clouds and all the colors of the skies. The intricate details of plants and animals amaze me. (Psalm 19:1; Psalm 104:24)

            When I think about things that are admirable, I think of the talents others are willing to share. I admire the hard work and hours spent practicing and developing those talents be it music, speaking, teaching, cooking, cleaning, or encouraging others. (Galatians 6:9-10; Hebrews 6:10; 1 Peter 4:10)

            When I think about what is excellent, I think of something far beyond the ordinary. It is going above and beyond “good” or even “great.” It is the wisdom of King Solomon, but it is also the widow’s mite. It is giving your very best effort in everything you do, as if you are doing it for your Heavenly Father.(Colossians 3:17, 23)

            When I think about something praiseworthy, I am always drawn to my Heavenly Father. For truly he alone should receive all praise, glory, and honor. (Psalm 69:30; latter part of Revelation 4:8)

           

            We have only “scratched the surface” as the saying goes. There is so much more we could find in God’s word to help us stay focused on those things that are pleasing to him.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

             Once again, you tell us not to just be hearers of the word, but to be doers also, (James 1:22). Forgive us where we fail you and guide us to become more Christlike in our daily lives.

            In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Respectfully written and submitted by

Dotty Willmon, Resurrection Christian—looking for the blessed hope of Christ’s return!