Philippians 4:8 gives us a list of virtues that can transform our minds. That verse says, “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.” Our minds are a great spiritual battleground, and following the advice of this passage will be incredibly helpful. Too often, we stop at verse eight and the admonition to think about these things, though.
But listen to verse nine: “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Paul didn’t just admonish Christians to think about good things—He exhorts us also to practice such things! It’s good to shape our minds by thinking about good and honorable things. But such focus should then permeate the actions of our lives. We will find true transformation as we think and act upon good things!