LIVING WORD DEVOTIONAL
By Pastor Mensa Otabil
 
Monday 19th January 2026

RIGHT WAYS OF THINKING

Scripture Reading: Philippians 4
 
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8

The Bible has a lot to say about the way we think. God, who created our brains and thinking faculties, wants us to regulate the way we think. Our predominant thoughts willshapet our livesin one way or another. If we keep our minds on the wrong thoughts, they will soon lead us to take wrong actions. If we meditate on godly ideas, we will soon find ourselves acting in a godly manner.
 
In our passage for today, Apostle Paul admonishes us to reflect and meditate upon eight positive principles of thinking that will lead to a victorious Christian life.
 
These are the six questions we must ask ourselves as we think through what to say and do. They are difficult questions that each of us must wrestle with as we seek to live the life that Christ wants us to live.
 
1. Is it True? The truth of God’s Word is the foundation of all truths. That is what we build our lives on.

2. Is it Noble?This has to do with sincerity and dignity. Our thoughts must be dignified and model the best of our humanity.

3. Is it Just? What we consider to be right or wrong must reflect God’s standards. The Lord is our example of righteous judgments.

4. Is it Pure? Clean thoughts and clean words. We must shun profanity and coarse jokes.

5. Is it Lovely? Love must be the force that drives the way we relate to others.

6. Is it a Good Report? What we think about must speak well of our God and our faith.
 
In the end, our thoughts and actions must be virtuous and excellent. That means we must endeavour, by God’s grace, to live above and beyond reproach. It’s not easy living this life. We will fall short many times, but we should not lower God’s standards to our level.
 
Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me to focus my thoughts and actions on the positive principles of your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.