Keeping a Godly Outlook

Philippians 4:8-13.

Introduction

Keep in mind a date February 14-16

High school small groups

No Wednesday Night services next week fr Thanksgiving.

Remember during worship please be respectful of the team.

Introduction

Imagine you’re putting on a pair of sunglasses. But instead of the usual tinted lenses, these glasses are completely smudged and dirty. When you look around, everything seems cloudy, dull, and distorted. Even the brightest, most beautiful scenes look like a mess because of the lens you're looking through.

Now, think about what happens when you clean those lenses. Suddenly, everything comes into focus. Colors are vibrant, and the world looks entirely different—not because the world changed, but because your perspective did.

This is how our mindset works. The way we think acts like a lens for how we see the world, other people, and even ourselves. If our minds are filled with negativity, fear, or untruths, everything we encounter will look discouraging or distorted. But when we focus on God’s truth and fill our minds with things that are pure, noble, and praiseworthy—like Paul challenges us to do in Philippians 4:8—our entire perspective changes.

As we dive into this passage, I want you to think about your “mental lenses.” Are they smudged with fear, comparison, or doubt? Or are they focused on what’s true and lovely, helping you see the world the way God wants you to?

Let’s explore how keeping a godly mindset can transform the way you live and help you thrive in every season.

Read Philippians 4:8–13 “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. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Pray

Point 1- Fix Your Thoughts on What Matters

Philippians 4:8 “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.”

What do we normally put our thoughts into?

The Power of Your Thoughts:

“Garbage in, garbage out” applies to our minds too. What you think about shapes who you are.Paul calls us to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy.

Practical Application:

Entertainment: What kind of music, movies, and social media content are you consuming?

Friendships: Do your friends build you up or drag you down?

Illustration:

Share a story about someone who turned their life around by changing their focus (e.g., a student choosing to limit time on toxic platforms and finding peace).

Point 2- Put Our Faith into Action

Philippians 4:9 “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

Learning and Living the Faith:

Paul tells the Philippians to practice what they’ve seen in his life. Faith isn’t just about belief; it’s about action.In your life, this could mean standing up for your values or choosing kindness when it’s easier to stay silent.

Relatable Example:

Share a story of a student who lived out their faith. Perhaps they helped a struggling friend, chose to walk away from gossip, or stood firm in their values under pressure.

Practical Application:

At School: How do you respond when someone is bullied or excluded?In Friendships: Do your actions reflect Christ’s love and integrity?

Encouragement:

Small actions of faith make a big impact. You might not see the results right away, but God uses your obedience in powerful ways.

Point 3- Find Our Strength in Christ

Philippians 4:10–13 “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

10- Appreciation

11- Contentment

12- Adaptability

13- Dependency

Contentment vs. Culture:

Paul says he’s learned the secret to being content in every situation, whether in plenty or in need.In contrast, our culture tells us we need more—better grades, cooler clothes, more likes on social media.

Christ is the Source:

The “secret” Paul mentions is found in verse 13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”This isn’t about achieving every goal but about finding peace and strength through Jesus in every season.

Illustration:

Share a story of a young person who faced hardship (family struggles, academic pressure, or personal loss) and leaned on Christ for strength.

Practical Application:

When you feel overwhelmed—before a big test, after a fight with a friend, or when you’re unsure of your future—remember to lean on Christ.

Encouragement:

Contentment isn’t found in circumstances; it’s found in a relationship with Jesus.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

Recap Points:

Fix Your Thoughts: Focus on what matters most—truth, purity, and God’s Word.

Practice Your Faith: Let your actions reflect Christ’s love and teachings.

Find Your Strength in Christ: Trust Jesus to give you peace and contentment in every season.