Friday First: Godly Thoughts

In our series of lessons we have been taking a look at spiritual stability. This is a significant theme throughout the New Testament. Over and over again we are called to be faithful, consistent, stable, strong, bold, courageous, unwavering, and uncompromising. It’s at the very heart of Christian living. So, how can we be stable? We stand firm in the Lord.  And the exciting thing here is God tells us how! He says to stand firm in this manner. Spiritual stability comes to us by the possession of: peace, joy, humility, faith, and gratitude. Is your life characterized by these spiritual attitudes?

This week’s lesson comes from Philippians 4.8. It is really the high point of the passage. Here Paul urges us to focus on godly virtues. Spiritual stability is the result of how you think. We must shift our thoughts away from the things of the world. We must dwell or “think” on godly things because we are each a product of our thinking. By the power of Christ we have the power to take every thought captive to obey Christ, 2 Corinthians 10.5. You have the ability to direct your mind to focus on what you know is true about Christ, God, and Scripture.

What must we direct our minds on? What ever us true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. We have to protect our mind. It is the greatest treasure we have.

On Sunday we will talk about:

• Spiritual stability is the result of how you think.
• The right things to think about.

As you prepare for worship, please think about these questions.

1. Why is it so important to dwell on good and wholesome things? (Proverbs 23.7)
2. What is the importance of keeping our minds renewed? (Romans 12.2)
3. Where do we go for truth?
4. Why is thinking on pure things such a concern during our time?
5. How can you better protect your thinking as you examine the influences of your life? What needs to be eliminated? What needs to be added?

OPENING / WELCOME
Kody Pritt

SONG LEADER
Roy Pyle

PRAYER OF PRAISE
Wes Grushon

LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Greg Morrison
 
SCRIPTURE READING
Paul Braden
Philippians 4.8

PREACHING
Matthew Allen

CLOSING PRAYER
Kevin Shanesy

CLOSING COMMENTS
Boyd Hastings

WELCOME CENTER
Diann Coffman / Sadonna Schofield

USHERS
Bob Hoopes / Jim Rutter

CLOSING THE BUILDING
Dru McLaughlin