July 2010                         'Think on these things…' (Phil 4:8)

This month's ‘Bible Theme' considers the influence of the way we think, from a Christian, Biblical perspective.

Having just returned from an enjoyable holiday in the Lake District , I have been reflecting on how beneficial it is to have an opportunity to just think about things, those things that critically affect our lives, our relationships and ultimately our own personal well being.

Perhaps those reading this month's ‘Bible Theme' will enjoy a similar opportunity - i.e.to have the chance to think about such critical issues too, during the coming holiday season.

There is a helpful study book by Sinclair Ferguson on the New Testament letter addressed to the Christians at Philippi (Let's Study Philippians, by Sinclair B Ferguson, published by the Banner of Truth Trust), that has a chapter entitled ‘Vital Relationships'. In this chapter the author suggests that the way we think, as Christian believers, influences first our relationship to Christ, second –and critically- our relationship to others, and ultimately our own personal well-being.

Paul the Apostle describes those comprising the Church at Philippi as his 'Joy and crown' and this New Testament letter to that Church, very much reflects such a confident assurance.

However, as with all human organisations there were problems in the Church at Philipii, in particular between two members, Euodia and Syntyche, who are exhorted to ‘be of the same mind in the Lord' (Phil. 4:2).

As the Apostle goes on to draw this brief letter to its conclusion, he prescribes a powerful antidote to that kind of distress that we, as Christians, are subject to from time to time. Ranging from friction in personal relationships, through to that kind of unease that affects not only our outlook but also our attitude to others, and can so easily lead to an inability to get on with others and ultimately to a general dissatisfaction with our own life and the way we are living it. (Leading to what some might describe as 'dysfunctional behaviour').

The Apostle, writing under the inspiration of God the Holy Spirit, gives a threefold prescription for all Christians facing or experiencing such problems - (Phil.4:4-6):

(1) ‘ Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say rejoice!'

(2) ‘Let your gentleness (reasonableness) be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.'

(3) ‘Be anxious (overstressed) for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God'

This simple but powerful prescription will lead, the Apostle assures us, to the peace of God which surpasses all understanding', a peace that ‘will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus'. Phil.4:7)

Finally, we, as Christian believers, are given something else to think about !

The world, the media, and unfortunately our own fallen nature, can fill our minds with a vast range of unhelpful, negative and downright degrading thoughts. Is it not true that the way we think and the things that dominate our thought life can dictate the kind of person we become?

Looking back over many years of spiritual pilgrimage, I recall some of the most helpful directions I came across, as a young Christian, are to be found in this passage in Philippians chapter 4. verses 4-9.

In these verses we find the Bible's sevenfold agenda for the Christian's mind, we are to think on those things that are: Noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, have virtue, and are praiseworthy'. (Phil.4:4-8).

In fact this Biblical advice is enhanced by one final instruction – ‘meditate on these things' - the word ‘ meditate' carrying the meaning –‘ to consider thoughtfully' (Chambers Dict).

Such a mindset is, as the Scriptures confirm, a strong basis for our continuing relationship with Christ Jesus as Saviour and Lord, our relationship with others, and finally our own personal well-being.

'Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer' (Psalm 19:14)

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NB. Some who read this ‘Bible Theme' may be unfamiliar with the Christian faith, either in a general sense – or as a simple personal experience. A helpful pamphlet entitled: ‘ What it means to be a Christian' is available by using our contact page.

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