Right thinking and right acting
Yesterday, Chaplain Messner preached from Philippians 4:8-9.
He addressed a problem that is prevalent in evangelical Reformed circles of focusing so much on getting doctrine right, but that doctrine often has little impact on our actions, our treatment of others. This is not to say that right doctrine is not worthy of pursuit or worthy of defense, but are we just affirming those truths in our minds or are the things we believe to be true the priority of our lives? Paul calls us to rigorous habits of the mind with continual practice of reflection, since what we meditate on, reflect on, set our minds on impacts our actions and behaviors.
Rather than narrowing what we think on, Paul is actually challenging us to expand our thoughts. Beginning with the person and work of God [creation, providence, redemption, mercy, love, grace, victory etc], we also are called to meditate on those things in art, literature, science, government, and other areas that are reflections of his character. We don’t see those things as ultimate or place them above the creator, but we do dwell on them.
One of the challenging questions Chaplain Messner asked, was “What fills your mind?” What does your mind generally drift towards?
In your area of study or work, what things are beautiful, praiseworthy, or excellent? How can you train your mind to dwell on them?
Published on 1 Apr 2008 by Christiana Fitzpatrick at 3:24 pm.
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