The Freedom to Find Peace

My Mom loved reading the Word, praying and sharing what she learned. She had a skillful way of weaving biblical truths into many conversations throughout my life. One of my favorites came to mind today as I read in the 4th chapter of Philippians.
During a discussion of my television viewing habits (specifically a "soap opera"), she encouraged me to put it to the Philippians 4:8 test. Scripture reminds us to "think on these things". The list is as follows: true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. I had to admit at that time that what I was filling my mind with didn't fit anywhere in this description.
Today while reading this passage it struck a new chord while reading it in context. Philippians 4:6-9 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
As mentioned before in the topic of taking thoughts captive, we need to replace our thoughts with things that are praiseworthy. What was cool today was the realization that when we ask for peace, God uses our own actions of our minds to achieve that peace. He gives us a formula of sorts to lead us to His peace.
I have often read those verses on their own but found a new refreshment today in reading them together. Hoping for God's peace in your heart today.

Always,

Hope