Resources/Articles
Character index
For as he thinketh within himself, so is he.
Proverbs 23:7
To have our thoughts of the last six months flashed upon a screen for all our family and friends to see would probably make us feel like leaving town. Though we can hide our thoughts from others, they are in clear view for God.
Thinking is key to our development as a person (Proverbs 4:23). What we allow to be retained by our minds usually channels its way into our ways of life, good or bad. Our thoughts will ultimately show what our characters are. In Philippians 4:8, there are some worthy ideas to apply to develop a character worthy of praise and where we would not mind others seeing our thoughts.
Whatsoever things are TRUE. Satan is declared to be “the father of lies” (John 8:44). Contrast Satan with God, who is said to be true and every man a liar (Romans 3:4). God’s promises and warnings are true. His Son is true. His gospel is true (John 17:17). If you are looking for truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, consider thinking about God and His ways.
Whatsoever things are HONEST. “Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men” (Romans 12:17). Love “does not behave itself unseemly...rejoiceth not in unrighteousness, but rejoiceth with the truth” (1 Corinthians 13:5-6). An honest and earnest reverence and respect for oneself and others is vital in every marriage, job, family, society, church, and community.
Whatsoever things are JUST. If a person is to be right, he must think about right things. Our world needs more people who are just in their deeds. It can only be accomplished with a mind that will humbly comply with the DIVINE will on all matters. We need a mind that is full of conscientiousness.
Whatsoever things are PURE. The pure in heart shall see God (Matthew 5:8). Those who are devoted to purity have a purpose as Daniel when he planned not to “defile himself” (Daniel 1:8). The Christian needs to see his heart as the temple of God’s image. If our thinking is pure, we will “abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good” (Romans 12:9).
Whatsoever things are LOVELY. We learn to love because God loved us (1 John 4:19). The life of a Christian is attractive to others because he acts in a lovely way (Titus 2:10). Being lovely requires a focus on the love of God, self-denial, and a heart of compassion.
Whatsoever things are of GOOD REPORT. Most people only hear what they want to hear. The disciple, interested in character, hears what is needful to the saving of his soul. What he/she will hear is the good news of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 3:16-17; James 1:21-25). This is where he/she will learn what is true, honest, just, pure, and lovely.
Does this index of traits characterize who you are?
