Bible Reading: Philippians 4:8
Do you know of someone who has hurt you? Do you have evidence of their hurtful actions? Do you spend time thinking about how awful they were to do such things or
conjuring up awful things that you wish would happen to that person?
If you spend time – any time – thinking those kinds of thoughts, you are thinking ignoble thoughts. Ignoble thoughts are any thoughts that are negative, put others down, tear others apart, or seek to get revenge with another person.
In our Bible reading, Paul lists the kinds of thoughts we should have. This verse says, “Finally, brothers, 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.” This verse tells us that, among other things, we should think noble thoughts. We should replace all ignoble thoughts with noble thoughts. Noble thoughts are positive. They encourage and build others up. They seek to help or strengthen others. They demonstrate God’s love.
What do you think most often – noble thoughts or ignoble thoughts?
I hope you are taking steps to eliminate all ignoble thoughts from your mind.
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24
Prayer: Heavenly Father, point out the ignoble thoughts in my mind and give me the noble thoughts that I can use to replace them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.