Think About Excellence

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. Philippians 4:8 (ESV‬‬)

What struck me about this verse is how it ends and the fact that it says to “think about these things”. It’s interesting to comprehend that excellence and good things start with our thoughts. Excellence is something that can seem difficult to achieve. But thinking about it is definitely something I can do. The wonderful thing is, it doesn’t stop there.

The verse actually spells out what things are excellent:

“Whatever is true”

Truth can be hard to find these days, but when we do find it, it’s like a breath of fresh air. Real truth directs us and cuts through the confusion. Fixing our minds on what is true is the first step toward living with clarity and confidence.

“Whatever is honourable”

We may not see honour celebrated as much anymore, but that doesn’t mean it’s lost. Honour still matters. When we choose to think on what is honourable, we elevate our perspective and invite a deeper respect for others and for ourselves.

“Whatever is just”

Justice might feel like a moving target in today’s world, but God’s justice never wavers. When we dwell on what is just, we align ourselves with God’s heart. We begin to think rightly and act fairly, even in a world that often doesn’t.

“Whatever is pure”

Things often feel messy and distorted, but purity cuts through it all with a refreshing strength. Thinking about what is pure includes pure motives, pure love, and pure intentions which help clear out the clutter and refocus our hearts on what truly matters.

“Whatever is lovely”

God’s beauty is everywhere if we’re willing to notice. There is so much that is lovely, whether it’s nature, a kind gesture, a simple joy, or the miracle of being alive. Choosing to see and think about these things shifts our hearts toward gratitude.

“Whatever is commendable”

It’s easy to focus on what’s wrong, but there are still things worth celebrating. Acts of kindness, quiet faithfulness, sacrificial love are all worthy of being commended. When we make space to think on what is commendable, we start to reflect it too.

Now this list is definitely something I can get behind. A complete instruction manual on how to pursue excellence in one simple verse.

Of course the world doesn’t change if all we do is just think, but thoughts are the seeds that form into our actions and eventually who we become. So what we choose to dwell on matters. I’m excited to see what the seeds of excellence will bloom into in our lives. Maybe it starts with just one small shift in our thinking today.

By René Boecking | explorewithrene.com