Living with Excellence: A Man’s Guide to Philippians 4:8
There are pivotal moments in every person’s life when we have to make a decision between different paths. These moments feel like standing at a crossroads. During these times, our mindset plays a crucial role in determining our direction. We want to strive for excellence and integrity, but how can we ensure we’re on the right path?
Philippians 4:8 offers timeless wisdom for such moments: “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.” These words, written by Paul to the Philippians, are a powerful guide for men seeking to navigate life with the proper mindset.
Paul encouraged the Philippians to think about, to keep their mental focus on, virtuous and praiseworthy things to live a life that honors God. In a world filled with distractions and negative influences, these principles provide a roadmap for maintaining focus on what truly matters. These qualities are significant for us today as we navigate challenges and seek to build lives of substance and character. Let’s look more closely at each of the qualities Paul describes and consider what they are, how we can practice living them out, and what blessings God gives us when we do so.
True
Definition: To focus on what is true means to seek and uphold truth in all aspects of life.
Application: Men can practice truth by being honest in their work, relationships, and personal reflections. At times, we can be tempted to fudge the truth to make ourselves appear in a more favorable light. Jesus said he was the Truth. When we are truthful, we can fix our eyes on Christ and trust him with the results.
Benefits: Living a life rooted in truth builds trust and credibility, fostering deeper and more meaningful relationships. Trust is the lifeblood of healthy relationships.
Honorable
Definition: Being honorable involves maintaining high ethical standards and behaving in a way that earns respect.
Application: Examples of honorable behavior include keeping promises, showing respect to others, and acting with integrity.
Benefits: Living honorably positively impacts personal reputation and strengthens bonds with others. As Proverbs 22:1 says, A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.
Just
Definition: Justice, in personal behavior, means acting fairly and standing up for what is right.
Application: We can pursue justice by treating others fairly, defending those who are wronged, and promoting equality. As men, it’s essential that we use our God-given calling to protect. Often promoting justice requires us to give our money, time, or even just our attention to someone weaker, poorer, or lower than us.
Benefits: Living justly enhances a man’s sense of integrity and fosters a trustworthy character.
Pure
Definition: Purity involves maintaining cleanliness in thoughts, words, and actions.
Application: Practical steps to maintain purity include being mindful of media consumption, cultivating healthy relationships, and setting personal boundaries. We must flee any hint of sexual immorality and live lives that are set apart from the patterns of the world.
Benefits: A pure life brings inner peace, clarity, and a clear conscience.
Lovely
Definition: Focusing on what is lovely means appreciating beauty and positive attributes in life.
Application: We can cultivate positivity by recognizing and celebrating the good in their surroundings and relationships. We can be the ones who point out what is beautiful and not get distracted by all that is ugly.
Benefits: Emphasizing lovely things brings joy, positivity, and a sense of fulfillment.
Commendable
Definition: Commendable actions are those worthy of admiration and respect.
Application: Acts of kindness, generosity, and service are examples of commendable behavior. We can think about people from Scripture or our faith communities who are faithfully serving the Lord. We can celebrate the good in those around us and not become consumed with the negative.
Benefits: Living commendably earns respect and admiration, strengthening community bonds.
Excellent and Praiseworthy
Definition: Excellence and praiseworthiness involve striving for the highest standards in all areas of life.
Application: Men should aim for excellence in their work, relationships, and personal growth. Small groups provide motivation and support for continual improvement and recognition of praiseworthy qualities.
Benefits: Pursuing excellence leads to personal growth, satisfaction, and a life of fulfillment.
Philippians 4:8 provides a comprehensive guide for men to live with excellence and integrity by focusing on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Another way to say “think on these things” would be to say “meditate on these things.” Meditation means spending time considering, Ruminating, and reflecting on them. Romans 12:2 says, “be transformed by the renewing of your mind,” and meditating on how God is calling you to live these principles will allow the Holy Spirit to begin doing that.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”—Helen Keller. In addition to meditating on God’s wisdom, Embracing the guidance of Philippians 4:8 within the fellowship of other men will empower us to live lives of true excellence and integrity. I can think of one small group participant who talked about how much the support of his small group meant to him in keeping his mind on things that brought hope and encouragement. We all need others to help proclaim what is true to us when we are in challenging seasons of life.
Reflection Questions:
- How can I incorporate the principles of Philippians 4:8 into my daily life?
- What steps can I take to join or form a small group for mutual growth and accountability?
Connect with The Redeemed Community
If you’re inspired to explore the transformative power of spiritual freedom and would like to journey alongside like-minded believers, consider joining one of The Redeemed’s small groups. Whether you prefer meeting in person or connecting online, our community is here to support and grow with you. Join us and discover how surrendering together can lead us into greater freedom.
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