15 November | EVERYONE
«Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.» Philippians 4:8
The constant repetition of the same message inevitably leads to action. It is a law of the mind. This law says that if you put continuous messages of violence in your head, you will end up committing some violent act. It is inevitable. If you fill your mind with negative thoughts, anguish, and difficulties, the result will be heartbreak and even suicide.
When Paul wrote this advice, he was a prisoner in Rome, deprived of his liberty and threatened with death. He had every reason in the world to feel depressed and distressed. Depression is a state of mind that makes you feel suffocated, at a dead-end, and lost. However, in the midst of these dramatic circumstances, the apostle, writing to the Philippians, tells them, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Phil. 4:6).
Do you think Paul would dare to offer this advice if he had not tried it in his own experience? He lived what he said and could present the result: “and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (v. 7).
Do you want the peace of Jesus to guard your thoughts? Do you want to live a coherent life full of values? Then concentrate your thoughts on all that is good, clean, and true.
“True religion ennobles the mind, refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, and makes its possessor a partaker of the purity and the holiness of heaven. It brings angels near […] and gives us the ‘spirit of a sound mind,’ and the result is happiness and peace” (Ellen G. White, Counsels on Health, p. 629).
Take Action
Think positive! This doesn’t mean positivity is the god who solves your problems. What it will help you do is chase away the anguish, and it will prepare you to contemplate the wonders that God desires to accomplish in your life. Sing “Think about These Things” (if possible, with your family).