The Philippians 4:8 Test

Finally, brethren, 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, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8 (KJV) emphasis mine

This verse is a test you can use for the thoughts you think, the words you speak, the relationships, you have, the songs you listen to, the shows you watch, the places you go, and all the other things you do.

True: Is it true? Does it line up with truth and does it help your heart stay true to God?

Honest: Is it honest to do?

Just: Is how you are treating people right or just? How do your actions affect others?

Pure: Is the speech pure in the songs you hear and the shows you watch? Should you hear it or speak it or repeat it?

Lovely: Does it minister God’s love? Does it paint a lovely picture in the heart and mind?

Good report: Does it point to good or evil?

Virtue: Is it virtuous? In other words, is it excellent? If you cannot do something with excellence, then don’t do it. Excellence is doing your best for the glory of God. Do it with all that is in you. Is it moral? Will it compromise who you are and what you believe?

Praise: Will it bring praise to God or does it glorify yourself, people, or even satan? Make sure the glory is going to God.

Remember, what we listen to and watch will help or hinder us. And what we do is to be done well and to honor God. We are to think on things that will send us in the right direction. We should set our minds on the good, noble, and honorable things. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he. In other words, what we think determines the path our life follows.

As we use the Philippians 4:8 test, we control our thoughts and actions and what we become.

Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. I Corinthians 10:31 (KJV)