Philippians 4:8 8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Paul continues his exhortations with a short virtue list of the types of thinking the Philippians should have. This list would be the best qualities of his day and are the best qualities in any culture. The word finally marks that this is a summary statement in many ways to the whole letter. This is the way the Philippians ought to think and act. There was much around them that could cause them to be discouraged and to think negative thoughts.
The word for think (logizethe) or “consider” comes as the last word of this long sentence for emphasis. These are practical ways to change our thinking so that we can experience the peace of God in our relationships and our minds. Focusing on these qualities will help us develop the mind of Christ (2:5) and have a positive outlook that can help us live with confidence and hope in our own situations.
What is true (alēthē) is trustworthy, authentic, and reliable. It is not based on rumors or speculation. What is honorable (semna) is majestic, inspires awe, and is respectable and honorable. What is just (dikaia) is fair and gives justice to all. It is used for those who carry out their duties faithfully. What is pure (hagna) is ethical and holy and has integrity and clean motives. What is lovely (prosphilē) is beautiful, attractive, and pleasing, in creation and the spiritual lives of others. What is commendable (euphēma) is what sounds and looks good; it is attractive and winsome. Any excellence (aretē) refers to the highest good that one can achieve by doing a good job that people notice. Worthy of praise (epainos) comes by developing a good reputation that others notice.
These qualities do not come simply by our own effort, but we must work at them with God’s help. This is part of working out our salvation in response to God’s work in us (2:12-13). This is not an occasional thought but a constant way of thinking that becomes our habit and way of life. We fill our minds with these things until they become the patterns of our life. The way we think will begin to influence how we live. This is how God’s peace changes our hearts and minds.
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