Philippians 4:8

“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.”

The original Greek language on this aspect of Philippians 4:8 refers to something or someone of good report or reputation. It can also be taken as a concentration on people’s positive characteristics rather than focusing on their shortcomings. I don’t know about you, but sometimes that can be a pretty tall order.

Are you quick to notice people’s faults? Do you try to catch people doing something right…or something wrong? When people fail, are you “Johnny on the Spot” with a reason as to why they are “that way”…or do you give them the benefit of the doubt? Our sin nature wants us to focus on everybody else’s faults as a way of minimizing our own. That way, we can build ourselves up on their backs. How sad.

When we focus on things that are admirable we sow into the fact that people are made in the Image of God despite their sin nature. This makes us agents of encouragement rather than soldiers of disdain. I’m pretty sure I know which camp the Lord wants us in.