Momentum For Monday, May 22nd 2023

"…think on these things." (Philippians 4:8)

If you have time, I highly encourage you to read as much of the letter to the Philippians as possible. Letters are meant to be read in their entirety, especially in Scripture. If you can, try and grasp Paul's attitude throughout this letter.

Paul's gratitude and advice should be noted not just because of what he is saying, but understanding where he is writing this letter. For some writer's, atmosphere is everything and he wrote this letter from prison. His mental and emotional fortitude is outstanding. To be in prison and still showing gratitude and offering value to others from that vantage point is inspiring.

To survive some of the worst seasons of life, Paul gives some life-saving mental and emotional health advice. Overcoming prisons, mental, emotional, or physical (maybe all 3 simultaneously), you have to think strategically. Guard what you dwell on. Philippians 4:8 gives a lengthy description of what those thoughts should entail.

For example, I tend to struggle through winter, January especially. So, what I do is plan things on purpose during that month to encourage myself to think positively. Depression can't reside in places that are occupied with gratitude, hope, and enjoyment. It's either one or the other, both can't exist.

If you struggle with thinking positively (authentically, not in a wishful manner), I encourage you to start rigging the system. Plan things on purpose, even if it's small. We don't all have to be as mentally tough as Paul to be able to benefit from his experience and advice.

"Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you."

(Philippians 4:9)