Whatever is Admirable

Intro // the importance of your thoughts

You are what you think about.

You are also who you hang around ()1 Cor. 15:33

The voices around you impact you, but so does the voice in your mind

If I could see your mind, I could see who you’re becoming

Your brain wires itself to follow old paths…

neuroplasticity = Romans 12:2

ex. pornography addiction

…but you can rewire it to follow new paths.

The battle for your heart begins in your mind.

I’ve seen Phil. 4:8 in action

Therapy friend commending “best part of your day”

If you’re struggling, write down what you’re grateful for

Explanation // whatever is admirable

Read Phil. 4:8

At times, Paul is redundant; at times, there is distinction in words

“Commendable”/“admirable” only used once in NT // “of good reputation”

We think of reputation as outwardly

What kinds of things to teens want to be known for? (ask)

beauty, intelligence, humor, athleticism, charisma, wealth, etc.

— “such good lives…”1 Peter 2:12

Not totally off, but more than outward

Paul says to dwell inwardly on things that are of good reputation

We want to put our best foot forward when others are watching

Paul says to put your best thoughts forward where no one can watch.

Why?

The battle for your heart begins in your mind.

The things you dwell on end up affecting your character.

// There are things that not long ago, our culture wouldn’t dare discuss openly, that are now celebrated (music, reality TV, social media)Eph. 5:8-12

The best spiritual discipline of my adolescence — my iPod nano

Exhortation // pick one practice to renew your mind

rubber band — slap yourself when thoughts of anger

music — only Christian playlists for 1-6 months

index card on mirror — every day by quoting Scripture

journal — 25 daily points of gratitude

create your own!

Put your best thoughts forward. Renew your mind. Be transformed into the image of Jesus.