Think on Good Things
Philippians 4:8 in practice
The Command
This is not a suggestion—it's a command. God tells us to actively direct our thoughts toward things that are good, pure, and praiseworthy. What you think about shapes who you become.
After deliverance, your mind needs to be renewed. The old patterns of thinking—the lies, the fear, the negativity—must be replaced with God's truth. Philippians 4:8 gives us a filter for every thought.
The Six Filters for Your Thoughts
Every thought should pass through these filters. If it doesn't measure up, reject it.
✓ True
Is it factually accurate? Does it align with God's Word? Reject speculation, assumptions, and lies.
✓ Honorable
Is it worthy of respect? Would you be proud to think it in God's presence? Reject shameful thoughts.
✓ Just
Is it right and fair? Does it reflect God's justice? Reject thoughts of bitterness, revenge, or unfairness.
✓ Pure
Is it morally clean? Does it reflect God's holiness? Reject lustful, perverse, or corrupted thoughts.
✓ Lovely
Is it beautiful and attractive? Does it inspire love? Reject ugly, hateful, or bitter thoughts.
✓ Commendable
Is it worthy of praise? Would you recommend this thought to others? Reject thoughts that tear down.
Practical Application
Here's how to put Philippians 4:8 into practice:
Catch Every Thought
Be aware of what you're thinking. Don't let thoughts run on autopilot. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:5, “We take every thought captive to obey Christ.”
Awareness is the first step. Notice when your thoughts drift into negativity.
Run It Through the Filter
Ask: Is this true? Honorable? Just? Pure? Lovely? Commendable? If it fails even one of these, it doesn't belong in your mind.
Don't compromise. A thought that is “mostly good” but impure should be rejected.
Replace, Don't Just Remove
When you reject a thought, immediately replace it with something good. An empty mind is vulnerable (Matthew 12:44-45). Fill it with Scripture, worship, gratitude.
Think of it like a garden: pull weeds, but also plant flowers.
Guard Your Input
What you watch, read, and listen to shapes your thoughts. Be intentional about your media consumption. If something feeds negative thoughts, cut it off.
“I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless” (Psalm 101:3).
Practice Gratitude Daily
Every day, intentionally think about what is good. Thank God for His blessings. Gratitude shifts your focus from problems to the Problem-Solver.
“Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).