Renew Your MindSýnishorn

Day 27: Think on These Things

Scripture:
"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. Put what you have learned, received, heard, or seen in me into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." – Philippians 4:8–9 (NIV)

Devotional:

Your mind is always thinking about something. The question is: what are you choosing to think about? Paul gives us a clear, inspired list of things to fill our minds with: truth, nobility, righteousness, purity, loveliness, admiration, excellence, and praise. These aren’t random thoughts. They are intentional. And they are powerful.

When Paul says, “Think about such things,” he uses a Greek word that suggests a deliberate process of considering, dwelling, and meditating. It’s not casual or momentary; it’s purposeful. He’s calling us to train our minds toward a godly focus, not to avoid sinful thoughts simply, but to actively fill our minds with what is good.

This daily discipline is not always natural or easy but is transformative.

1. The Power of Focused Thinking

What you think about shapes how you feel, how you act, and what you believe. If you constantly focus on what’s wrong, you’ll live in anxiety and discouragement. But if you focus on what is true and praiseworthy, your mind becomes a dwelling place for peace.

Paul didn’t write this from a beach. He wrote it from prison. His mind remained free despite chains, uncertainty, and persecution because it was fixed on Christ and filled with truth. That’s the power of focused thinking: it gives you peace even when your circumstances don’t.

2. The Filter Test

Paul provides us with a built-in thought filter. Every thought you entertain can be run through this list:

• Is it true or based on assumption, fear, or a lie?
• Is it noble, worthy of respect and honor?
• Is it right, morally, and spiritually upright?
• Is it pure, free from corruption or compromise?
• Is it lovely, beautifying your spirit or tearing it down?
• Is it admirable, worthy of praise and imitation?
• Is it excellent, a reflection of God’s character?
• Is it praiseworthy, something you could lift before God with thanksgiving?

If the thought doesn’t pass the test, you don’t have to keep it. You have authority in Christ to reject thoughts that drag you down and instead fix your mind on what builds you up.

This list isn’t about escapism or pretending hard things don’t exist. It’s about fighting for mental clarity and peace by choosing your focus. It’s about magnifying what is good and godly instead of being overwhelmed by the noise and negativity of the world.

3. Think, Then Practice

Paul doesn’t stop thinking. He says in verse 9: “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.” That’s the bridge from thought to transformation.

What you think about will shape what you practice. Right thoughts lead to right living. Peace isn’t found just in mental affirmation; it comes through action grounded in truth. You can’t passively hope for a peaceful life while feeding your mind with chaos.

If you want to walk in the peace of God, you have to train your mind to think like a child of God. Fill your day with things that stir up praise and joy. Read Scripture. Listen to worship. Speak words of life. Journal the things God is doing in and around you. Express gratitude out loud. All of these are ways to practice what Paul is teaching here.

4. Peace Is the Result

Paul ends with a promise: “And the God of peace will be with you.” Notice this: not just “peace will be with you,” but “the God of peace.” This promise is about more than a feeling; it’s about a Person. As you align your thoughts with His truth and your actions with His ways, God’s presence brings calm, strength, and confidence.

You don’t fight for peace alone. The God of peace walks with you, guards your heart, and transforms your mind.

Prayer:
Father, teach me to think about what is good, noble, and true. Help me filter my thoughts through your Word and your character. Fear, doubt, or negativity remind me that I can choose what I dwell on. Let my thoughts reflect your goodness and lead me to practice my beliefs. May your peace fill every corner of my mind and heart. It is in the name of Jesus Christ I pray, amen.