Philippians 4:8 - Cognitive Behavior Therapy in the Bible.

Philippians 4:8 - Cognitive Behavior Therapy in the Bible.

Philippians 4:8 (NIV)  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. 

Think about such things Phil. 4:8: The word translated "think" 
here means to "continually focus your mind." But more is implied than 
considering. We are to concentrate on expressing these qualities in our 
lives, so that as we dwell on them, they in turn dwell in us. 
*      the true--meaning the truthful in thought as well as every 
aspect of life. 
*      the noble--meaning that which wins respect; the honest, 
honorable, worthy. 
*      the right--meaning that which fulfills all our obligation 
to God and to other men. 
*      the pure--meaning that which fits us for fellowship with 
and service to God, including but more than freedom from bodily 
sins. 
*      the lovely--meaning that which is attractive and winsome.
*      the admirable--meaning that which is kind and likely to 
win others. 
These were considered excellent and praiseworthy qualities in 
Greek culture as well as among Christians. The Christian is not to be 
the "odd" man in society, but the ideal man. [The 365-Day Devotional 
Commentary] 

Thinking on these things causes one to think of Jesus.  [Elder 
Steve House] 

  What you think about in your unguarded moments reflects what 
your mind dwells upon. What you speak about when your guard is down 
is a good gauge of what is in your heart (Mt 12:34). Your mind 
needs exercise just as your physical body does. To keep your body 
healthy, you must be careful what you put into it, and you must exercise 
regularly. To keep your thoughts pure, you must guard what goes into your 
mind. To exercise your mind, you must contemplate things that are 
noble and truths that stretch your mind. 
  Some Christians allow the world to fill their minds with 
ungodly thinking. Some people seem drawn to concentrate on the negative, 
choosing to be pessimistic about everything. Some remain satisfied with 
thinking of the mundane. Others fail to intentionally place Scripture in 
their thoughts, choosing instead to adopt human reasoning. Others, 
however, choose to expose their minds to the truths of God--to that which 
is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and good. 
  The things you allow your mind to dwell on will be revealed by 
the way you live. If you focus on negative things, you will 
inevitably be a negative person. If you allow unholy thoughts to fill your 
mind, ungodliness will become common in your life. If you fill your 
mind with thoughts of Christ, you will become Christlike. 
  What you fill your mind with is a matter of choice. Choose to 
concentrate on the magnificent truths of God, and they will create in you a 
noble character that brings glory to God. [Experiencing God Day by Day 
by Henry and Richard Blackaby re Phil. 4:8] 

Garbage In, Garbage Out: What we put into our minds determines 
what comes out in our words and actions. Paul tells us to program our 
minds with thoughts that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, 
commendable, virtuous, and praiseworthy. Do you have problems with impure 
thoughts and daydreams? Examine what you are putting into your mind 
through television, books, music, conversations, movies, and magazines. 
Replace harmful input with wholesome material. Above all, read God's 
Word and pray. Ask God to help you focus your mind on what is good 
and pure. It takes practice, but it can be done. (Life Application 
Commentary Series) 

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle 
that goes on inside people.  
He said, "My son, the battle is between 2 wolves.  
One is Evil. It is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, 
arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, 
superiority, and ego.  
The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, 
humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion 
and faith."  
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his 
grandfather, "Which wolf wins?  
"The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed." [source 
unknown]