Think about these things!
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS. (RSV).
At this time of year having some time to think may be a stretch! But that is exactly what this Brief Word is about. More particularly, the subject of our thoughts.
In just a few more days we’ll be celebrating Christmas for another year. Where do our thoughts go and what centers our thoughts at this time of the year? Many of us will be very busy and engrossed in the festivities with family and friends, others may be lonely. Some will be using the time for partying, some will go to church.
When mankind landed on the moon it was big news. Neil Armstrong’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind captivated the world. But something as significant as the birth of the Saviour, warrants some special time set aside to think. To reflect and receive again into our mind and spirit something of the wonder of the birth of the Saviour into the world.
“Think about these things”.
Think about the reason for the season. Think about what Christ and His redemption means to you. What have been the changes in your life as a result? Surely that will bring the same expression as the angels: Luke 2:13-14 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (NKJV).
“Think about these things”.
Think about next year. What we think is so important.
Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. (NKJV). A person becomes the consequence of what they think … the beliefs they hold.
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (NKJV). Your life is transformed by renewing your mind … your life is “contained” by your mindsets.
A New Year brings with it a sense of new possibilities. People traditionally set their New Years’ Resolutions which also, traditionally, generally don’t amount to much in real achievements.
However, for those who take life seriously and are committed to excel in the coming year, each New Year is a time of prayerful reflection and consideration of the possibilities and opportunities that God has placed in our individual hearts as an expression of His desires for us for this year.
Let it be God and His Word that establishes our thinking for this Christmas season, and for the New Year.
Thank you for your prayers for me during this year as I have “passed through” the deep waters of surviving a heart attack. By the grace of God I am well on the road to recovery now and getting stronger every week.
At this wonderful and special time of the year, Wendy and I extend to you and yours our personal Christmas greetings. We pray as you take time to think about the incredible love of God and plan of Redemption that was expressed in the birth of the Saviour, may Jesus Himself draw close to you.
We trust you are able to take some time to relax with family and friends and really enjoy the celebration of the birth of Christ. We pray you have a happy and safe Christmas and holiday season.
