Whatsoever Things

Did anyone else grow up hearing that? And I’m proud to say I sound like my mother when I pass this along to my own children.
Because it’s so true.
So I know when I rattle off “if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well” to my 13, 11, or 7-year-old for their chores, it’s not going to sound…to them…as if I’m being loving.
I think God must feel the same about us. He calls us to goodness…in all things…at all times…in all ways.
Even our thoughts.
Philippians 4:8 KJV
Whatsoever things are true: I am loved and created specifically for the doors God has opened for me.
Whatsoever things are just: Live a life of integrity and lead my children by example
Whatsoever things are pure: In a world that feels increasingly dark, work passionately to keep our home full of God’s light. I don’t want to be overly protective, but I also have a responsibility to keep the hearts and minds of my children as pure and joyful and peaceful as I can.
If there be any virtue or praise… if it is excellent: Train my mind to dwell and focus on the good gifts from God.

Someone (politely) let me know that they could not follow me anymore because it seemed that I was too unaware of the tattered state of our world. In essence, I was being too positive and it bothered them.
What I did feel was immediate sadness for this individual. It was a clear reminder of the sad, hopeless lens through which so many people see life.
And the easy way out would be to land there. To settle in the grime and despair. But if living is worth doing well, then it is worth the hard work to fight against the sadness, suffering, and heartbreak to see the good, pure, and lovely.

I see it in a thoughtful text from a friend and in generosity to those in need. I feel it in the hug from a student and an iced latte paid for by the guy in front of me (yep, that happened!). I see it in the weed, tucked in a cup of water by the sink, lovingly picked by my little guy. I see it. I hear it. I feel it.
So…here’s your homework.
Philippians 4:8 for me, for this time:
Whatsoever things are true:
Whatsoever things are honest:
Whatsoever things are just:
Whatsoever things are pure:
Whatsoever things are lovely:
Whatsoever things are of good report:
If there be any virtue or praise… if it is excellent:
Big hugs and simple blessings for your week. The gift of life is worth doing well.
Blessings,
Thank you, Robyn! Gods word turned into thoughtful contemplation for my day! ❤️
Beautiful way to start Sunday morning by reading your blog. Thank you! Praise God.
I tell my kids that all the time. A job worth doing is worth doing well. They don’t quite get it but maybe one day. Thanks for this thought provoking post.
Beautiful read on this beautiful Sunday Morning!! God bless you and your family!! xo
I am surprised by how much I look forward to your messages and pictures of your very nice decorating. I guess my taste is very close to yours. But I need to dust more often. Thanks goody2r@gmail.com
Thank you Robyn. You are a blessing to your family and your community. Have a blessed weekend.
Wonderful. Thanks for your reminder. I agree whole heartedly. Blessings.
Amen! This is a beautiful post.
I love this beautiful reminder and peek into the highs and lows of your week. Life always has some of both but these verses (the same ones I’ve been meditating on this week) point us to the power we have over our thoughts. ALWAYS there are tangible gifts from God just for us when we open our eyes and minds to see them!
So beautiful!!
So beautifully written! Thank you for sharing your heart!
Thank you so very much for sharing. Very much needed in this crazy world we are all living in. God Bless.
Thanks so much for the reminder!! I always enjoy your posts, verses, and lovely smile, along with all the decor! They are a bright spot in my day!
Beautifully written post!! Also teachers are a gift from God, I know the dedication, devotion, and so many other things that it requires. Thank you for your post.
Yes and AMEN!! I do plan on taking this challenge as a reminder to myself and others of God’s good promises! Thank you for always encouraging us and pointing us back to our true source of strength!