“Think On These Things”
A radio talk-show host was lamenting the negative
focus that seems to be found in the press. To illustrate, he took the top thirteen new
s articles that appeared in that day’s newspaper.
Eleven of the articles were either “doom and gloom” (about something terrible
that could happen), or “man’s inhumanity to man” (the crimes and the conduct that cast the
worst reflection on society.) Only one of the thirteen articles (one about a drug that might be
helpful in treating Alzheimer’s) was positive in an
y way. He repeated the process in reviewing the headline stories on the television news programs.
All of these programs were focused on the same 5-6 stories of national interest that featured war,
scandals, corruption, kidnapping, and rape. He concluded his commentary by confessing that he
had been a “news junkie.” “No wonder I am anxious and depressed all of the time.”
His solution, “I’m no longer reading or watching the daily news. I will make my own
decisions about what is important to my life. There are plenty of good and positive things happen
ing around us if that is what we are looking for.” Amen!
Long ago, Solomon wrote “as a man thinks in his heart—so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7)
There are those in this world who want us to be totally focused on the seamy,
depressing aspects of life. This, I guess is their excuse to lose themselves in any excess or
indulgence that they choose. After all, the world’s motto is “let us eat and drink,
for tomorrow we die.” (I Corinthians 15:32)
Christians do not deny that there are problems in this world– but we can rejoice
that even in trials there is hope! That hope is in Christ who has overcome this world!
The general attitude of a Christian should be one that is upbeat and positive. It’s true that we don’t
know what the future holds, but we know Who holds the future. This affects our entire outlook on
life.
Paul writes “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say rejoice! Be anxious for nothing, but
in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made
known unto God.” (Philippians 4:4-6)
Instead of being preoccupied with all the negativity of the world, Christians
have so many blessings and opportunities to rejoice in. What kind of things should we focus on?
What kind of thoughts should fill our minds? Paul continues “finally, brethren, whatever
things are noble, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any
virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy– think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
Our whole outlook will change if we “seek first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness.” (Matthew 6:33) Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world. We are “in the world, but
we are not of it.” (John 17:15) If we set our “minds on things above, not on the things of this
earth” (Colossians 3:1-2) good thing will result.
Our life will be filled with the joy of helping others; the excitement and satisfaction of seeing l
ives changed by the gospel. The acts of kindness that we show to others will be returned to
us one hundred-fold. Soon we will find more opportunities to do good than we can take
advantage of, and a sense of satisfaction and joy will prevail. Good news doesn’t just
happen—it is created! “And the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will guard
your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4) :angel:
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