WEEK 1
Choose Introduction
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WELCOME
1. Do you believe in positive thinking? Can you share your thoughts about this?
2. Given a chance to choose between branded vs. inexpensive products which do you usually prefer?
WORD
Text: Philippians 4:8 (ESV)
“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.”
In Philippians 4:8, Paul encourages us to develop a Christian thought pattern.
The whole context of the book of Philippians is living a joyful life in the midst of any circumstances. Our thinking is something we must take charge over. If we don't, it will control us.
Paul tells us that we need to be intentional about focusing our minds in whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and of good repute.
Let's look at the list:
1. We are to Focus on what is True rather than on what is Not.
The word means “True as to fact ... it denotes the actuality of a thing” The “true” is that which corresponds to reality. We are to spend our time thinking about the things that are accurate, genuine, and reliable.
2. We Need to Focus on the Positive Rather than the Negative
Paul tells us that we should think about things that are "noble" and "lovely" and "admirable" and "praiseworthy". In other words we should turn away from dwelling on that which is offensive, foul, and negative.
3. We need to Focus on what is Right rather than to Compromise.
To think on what is right means, we need to choose the way we respond to our circumstances.
We can either see everything as a tragedy or view things as a challenge.
See them as obstacles or as opportunities.
We can either focus on our inability or to God's great sufficiency.
It's our choice and we need to remind ourselves of this.
4. We need to Focus on what is Pure rather than the Impure.
The word refers to the moral purity that is pictured as one whole being as undefiled by abstaining from any impurity or greed, even to be associated with.
As Christians, we live in an impure culture.
But we must focus on moral purity.
5. We need to Focus on what is Lovely and Commendable (of good repute).
Whatever is lovely occurs only here in the New Testament.
It means what is pleasing, agreeable, and attractive.
At times we all find ourselves attracted to that which is evil.
But this word must be taken within the context, meaning that which is both pure and attractive. Whatever is commendable comes from a compound word meaning to speak well of something it says about and believe the best about another person
6. Think of “Excellence”
Paul said it all in Colossians - Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. (3:23-24)
LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION
1. It has been said, “It doesn't matter what you believe, as long as you're sincere.”Would Paul agree or disagree with this statement? Why?
2. Growth in the Christian life involves the transformation of the mind (v. 8). How do you develop a God-honoring thought life?
MINISTRY TIME
1. Ask every one in the group if there is a particular area in their thought that needs to be submitted to God based on our scriptural study today.
2. Use the whole verse as your prayer guide and end your prayer with encouragement.
PERSONAL APPLICATION
Study and memorize this passage of the week:
Philippians 4:8 (ESV)
“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.”
WORKS
Remind everyone the following THINGS TO DO DURING OUR SERIES
1. Encourage everyone to commit to attend all our Sunday Celebrations.
2. Bring a new friend to be part of your Life Group next week.
3. Read our Newsletter to see what's up for the coming week and be part of it if it relates to your network.
4. Read the Book of Philippians during your quiet time.
5. Record your thoughts in your prayer journal about how this study applies to you.
NOTES:
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