Fw: think about these things

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Rob Smith <toanosmith@yahoo.com>
To: Rob Smith <rsmith@mycwa.com>
Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 7:03 AM
Subject: think about these things

Philippians 4:⁸ 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. 

-

We are immersed in a culture of "media".  Through the air, through cables, from satellites...over smart phones, tablets, computers, televisions, newspapers and books...from a spectrum of ideologies that ranges from one extreme to another. "Media" really means "an intermediate agency".  When we watch, read and listen to the media we are exposed to an intermediate agency that shapes our thoughts.  Someone else's thoughts are affecting or even forming our thoughts.  Of course this isn't all bad.  We need to grow in knowledge...we need to keep up on important events...it is helpful to know the weather for the day...it is good to keep up with friends and family on social media (or share devotional thoughts!).

-

But it is good to remember that one of the few things we can control in life is what we will think about.  If we always use an "intermediate agency" to fill our minds with other people's thoughts we may never discover our own thoughts or develop the direct relationship our thoughts can have with the living God.

-

I believe that if we follow the inspired advice of the apostle Paul from the verse above and think on those things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent and praiseworthy...our thoughts will inevitably lead to Him and His thoughts...His Word.  And He is not an "intermediate agency".  He is the source!  If we allow silent times from the "media" we may encourage more of this direct connection.

-

blessings,

Rob Smith