Our scripture this morning is Philippians 4:8 (NASB1995).
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
Paul writes to the church at Philippi with instructions in this chapter on how to maintain the mind of Christ in ourselves when we face difficult times. They were dealing with internal disputes as well as pushback from society. Paul doesn’t pick a side but reminds all parties how they have been blessed by Christ’s teaching and sacrifice for us, and that they have all worked together to share His love.
We experience issues that divide us today, in our culture and in our churches. We need to see dissent carefully, recognizing the difference in genuine needs and concerns and evil driving a wedge between us. Too often we let the situation dictate our often hostile responses to each other, rather than what Jesus taught us.
Paul recommends a better response – focus on the good things we have been given and then use those to keep our minds set on how to solve our problems instead of just criticizing those with whom we disagree. We will always have differing opinions on the right way to approach our issues but we need to see the problem and solution as separate from the people Jesus taught us to love.
Patient God, we know You did not create us to contend with each other. Bless us to listen to each other and work to understand what divides us, keeping our minds filled with Your love and Your command to bring the Good News to all Your children. Amen.
