Whatever is ...... (5)

Whatever is LOVELY.

What happens when we continually concentrate on things pleasant and acceptable?

Phil 4:8 is the only time this word is used in the New Testament. What value is in exercising your mind in this way? The key is in focusing on anything God finds acceptable, pleasing or winsome in individuals.

A former boss made demands for extreme excellence. I received frequent 'butt-chewings' before attaining his level of quality. Daily practice made 'extreme excellence' routine. I became excellent at video tape editing. Consistent high expectations brought high quality results. My thinking changed.

If I demand myself to consistently search for what is lovely, I will find it. I will enjoy it. I will raise my personal expectations to match.

First, I will identify what is needed to be quality, to have ideal family time, to accomplish great community service, and valuable service to God.

Second, I will induce others to that same level of acceptance. I will demonstrate joy and pleasantness gained from quality.

Third, I develop an admiration for anyone who does anything well. I can enjoy watching a backhoe operator or a cable television repairman. I will develop the ability to learn desirable ways from just about anyone who exemplifies quality.

Thinking about anything that is lovely, quality, or acceptable is good for us, our families, and our friends. Whatever is LOVELY....

Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.”

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Paul is perpetually preparing us. Let's study truth, honor, pure and lovely.

Missing

There was no warning. He just wasn't there. My scheduled replacement, "J.W.", should be on time.

It was 11:10 p.m. I was tired. Ten minutes before my shift ended. I was sleepy and ready to go to bed. But security guards are not off duty, no matter what the reason, without being replaced.

I called the other guardhouse to inform the other guards about his absence. “Call the Lieutenant,” was the barbed reply. I knew they were right.

“Lieutenant, he is not here, again. This makes four times.”

“Big surprise, huh?” came the sleepy, sarcastic voice. “Stay put, and I'll call you back shortly,” the Lieutenant grumped.

At 11:14 a guard notifying me of the Lieutenant's actions. He had ask another guard to go to JW's house and wake him up. At 11:27 I learned J.W. was on his way. The 6-minute drive took him 18 minutes. At 11:45 he arrived. He gave no apology. His excuse was suspicious.

I relayed important information, completed the required paper work and phone call, turned the equipment over to him, and hit the door. I failed to give him a quick examination for drugs or alcohol.

This true story has been fictionalized and exaggerated. Why? So I can practice Philippians 4:8. Phil 4:8 has eight areas needing evaluation, meditation, and decisions. Phil 4:8 lead to a greater dependence of God, seeing reality through God's eyes, and making decisions to enhance life here and now.

Here is what I found. You will see areas where your help is needed.

• Whatever is True.
  • Expect the unexpected. I need to be ready for anything.
    • 

      Being a bit like Gumby is a good thing. Be flexible.
    • Be ready for the Lord to return. No one knows His time. Be prepared.
  • Be Patient. With planning, there is little reason for hurrying. James 1:3-4 says, "knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. ⁴ But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."
• Whatever is Noble
  • What Noble thing could I done? Suggestions? Put your ideas in the comment section, please.
• 

  Whatever is Just 
  • Writing him up would have been just. Justice might serve the repeat offender. It might begin disciplinary measures in hopes of correcting JW's behavior.
• Whatever is Pure.
  • I fail to see anything Pure. If you do, please put your idea in the comment box at the bottom.
• Whatever is Lovely / Acceptable / Dignified.
  • Could I have approached him to check for alcohol or drug use with dignity? I would like to think I could. A highly professional approach should be acceptable, even expected, from a fellow guard.
• Whatever is of Good Report / Endorsable.
  • The third guard sent to his home is something I support. I am glad the guard did for JW's good. Would it have been better if I had went instead?
• Any Virtue.
  • Morally, I demand punctuality in myself, noting the effects of tardiness on others.,
• Anything Praiseworthy.
  • My Lieutenant was responsive to the situation. I should develop the ability to respond carefully and appropriately to all situations,too.