Should I Dwell on This Thought?

May 21

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” — Philippians 4:8

Philippians 4:8 gives us a filter — not for scrolling, but for dwelling.
Use this biblical checklist to pause, examine, and redirect your thoughts toward what is true, holy, and life-giving.

Is it TRUE?

Does this thought align with what is real, trustworthy, and unchanging in God's Word?
Ask: Does this reflect God's truth—or my fears, assumptions, or emotions?

Is it HONORABLE?

Is this thought worthy of respect? Does it lift my mind toward what is noble and eternal?
Ask: Is this thought helping me live with reverence and integrity before God?

Is it JUST?

Is this thought consistent with God's justice and righteousness?
Ask: Am I seeing this situation the way God sees it—or through a lens of bias, bitterness, or self-protection?

Is it PURE?

Is this thought clean, sincere, and free from sin’s corruption?
Ask: Is this thought stirring holiness—or feeding temptation, resentment, or pride?

Is it LOVELY?

Does this thought reflect the beauty of Christ and the call to love?
Ask: Is this leading me to peace, kindness, and grace—or harshness, fear, or control?

Is it COMMENDABLE?

Is this thought worth repeating? Would someone be encouraged to think this way?
Ask: Would I want others to know I’m thinking this—or to follow my example?

Is it EXCELLENT or PRAISEWORTHY?

Does this thought inspire worship? Is it aligned with what glorifies God?
Ask: Would this thought make much of Jesus—or just magnify me, my pain, or my preferences?

Heart Check

Your thoughts shape your emotions, decisions, and worship.
Ask: Is this thought drawing me closer to God—or deeper into self?

Invite the Holy Spirit to renew your mind with truth. What you dwell on, you become.

Ashlyn Lanni