Think on These Things: Dwell on the Good (Philippians 4:8–9)

Philippians 4:8-9, “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. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

You are what you eat is an expression I always heard growing up. “If you eat only cookies, you will become a giant cookie” is how my mom would teach me to eat a more balanced diet. As a kid, imagining myself as a huge cookie was funny. And I must admit, I’ve told my daughter this same thing and gotten a giggle as she imagined herself as one big strawberry.

But this advice isn’t just a fun way to get kids to eat vegetables—it’s a truth about God’s created order. Our diet affects us. Eating only junk food will make us sluggish and sick. Eating nutritious foods gives us strength and health.

In the same way, what we think about affects us. Proverbs 23:7 says, “As he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Our thoughts shape our character. We become what we think about. That’s why the Bible commands us to “take every thought captive” (2 Corinthians 10:5) and to “remember Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 2:8). Paul encourages the Philippians to dwell only on what is good—to think on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, excellent, and praiseworthy.

But how do we do that? What does that look like practically? There are three simple steps.

1) Be Aware of the Problem

We must recognize that, just like our diet, our thoughts are forming us. Every form of media, every lyric, every reel or post we consume is shaping our values. What are these things causing you to think about? What do they celebrate? Are they pointing you toward sin—or toward Christ?

What would someone see if your Spotify playlist played in church? Or if they scrolled your Instagram on the big screen? You are accountable for what you feed your heart and mind.

2) Recognize What “Good” Is

We don’t define what’s good—God does. And we must submit to His definitions. He is the Creator and the standard of all goodness. So what does He call good?

• God Himself – “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious…” (Exodus 34:6)
• His Word – “Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.” (Psalm 119:97)
• His Works – “For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work.” (Psalm 92:4)
• Our Good Works in Christ – “Created in Christ Jesus for good works…” (Ephesians 2:10)

3) Dwell on the Good

We could summarize “dwell on the good” as “dwell on God.” This includes everything He has said, done, and commanded. Here’s how:

A. His Word

Memorize Scripture: God’s Word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12). It encourages, convicts, comforts, and trains us in righteousness. If you’re looking for help, I recommend the free app Verses like the ESV app, and reciting to help you memorize passages in just a few minutes a day.

Meditate on Scripture: Psalm 119 is a powerful example of loving and meditating on God’s Word. Christian meditation is not about emptying your mind (as in Eastern practices), but filling it—with God’s truth. Choose a verse and dwell on it deeply. For example, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation…” (2 Corinthians 5:17). What does that mean? How should it shape your thinking today?

B. Worship

What songs are on repeat in your heart? Music forms your theology and stirs your affections. Be intentional about listening to worship that points your heart toward Christ.

Not all worship music is helpful—some lyrics are more about feelings than faith. That’s why I recommend the theologically rich songs of Sovereign Grace Music. Their lyrics are Scripture-saturated and Christ-exalting, offering timeless truths in singable form.

C. God’s Works

Everything was made by and for Jesus (Colossians 1:16), and that includes your work, studies, and interests. You can dwell on God by thinking about His design in every area of life:

• In economics: God’s wisdom in justice, stewardship, and provision
• In history: His providence unfolding through the nations
• In philosophy: His truth triumphing over vain speculation

Conclusion

You are what you eat—and you are what you think. So fill your mind with what is good, true, and eternal. Fix your thoughts on Christ: who He is, what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will do.

May His Word be hidden in your heart. May your worship be full of truth. And may your thoughts be shaped by the goodness of God—so that in all things, you glorify Him.