one's focus

Philippians 4:8-9 is an important passage for us all, and particularly for me, when I see what I think is wrong. This passage is not about positive, or possibility thinking. It's about learning to think in accord with God's good will and work in the world, in Jesus. It takes into account God's grace, as well as God's law. And it refuses to accept as the last word the wrong that is seen and perceived. I included verse 9 because it's not enough for us only to think well, but we need to show that in how we live.

Of course Scripture itself is to be a major part of this focus spoken of in this passage. And such a focus is not living in denial of what is wrong, and opposed to God and God's will. A healthy realism is a part of this. But this focus also sees that God in Jesus by the Spirit in community in mission to the world, gives answers and hope- pointing to the full realization of such hope to be completed by God the Father, Son and Spirit when heaven and earth are made one. So that we live by faith lives full of hope and love.

So one application here for me is to look for what is good, rather than dwelling on what is not. Not sweeping what is wrong under the rug, but seeking in all things to find a good measure of God's grace at work. Beginnning first in our own lives, and out from that into the lives of others.

What part does Philippians 4:8-9 play in your life? Or anything you'd like to add here?