As I was spending time with Jesus this morning, I read Philippians 4:8. It's a verse I've read who knows how many times and you probably have as well. If you haven't looked it up already or don't have it memorized, here it is:
Finally, 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.
This verse really stuck out to me this morning and I really wasn't sure why. Today we got to spend some time with 4 women who have previously been involved in trafficking. It was absolutely amazing to get to know them and hear what their dreams and desires are.
As I got to know them and their stories, my heart just became more and more broken for them. It was making me sad just hearing what they've been through and how they have been treated. That's when God brought Philippians 4:8 back to my mind. Instead of thinking about how bad their lives were, I need to think about all of those "whatever" things. The fact that they have been rescued, redeemed, and renewed!
"if there is anything worthy of praise, think on these things." Our God is so worthy of praise for what He has done for these women. Not only that, He is worthy of praise for what He has done for me, for you, and for our families!
So instead of thinking/worrying about the things that you need to do, a stressful situation at work, or anything else that takes over your time, think about the whatever's……whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable. We need to stop wasting time worrying about other things, and remember the One who is worthy of all our praise!
The song "Hello, My Name Is" by Matthew West came to my mind a lot today as well. A lot of times we identify ourselves by our past and/or struggles. This song puts it perfectly in the chorus. Here's a video for the song……
