Writing to the Philippians, Paul says, “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” (Phil. 4:8).
How can a person live out Paul’s instructions while regularly partaking in popular media, whether it’s newsprint, television shows and movies, trending music, or social media? More often than not, the media swirling around us falls short in more than one of the characteristics Paul mentions.
Looking again at Philippians 4, one may observe the context in which Paul calls for this otherworldly focus. In v. 2, the apostle encourages two ladies in the congregation to agree with one another – to put aside whatever divisions existed among them and get along in the Lord. He then launches into a series of positive commands, which, when obeyed, result in “the peace of God” (v. 7).
Paul then calls for the upward mindset in v. 8, and he follows this as well with another allusion to peace in v. 9 – this time a result of imitating Paul’s Christian lifestyle and faith. Is it any wonder that the present culture does not know peace?
Social media sites and comment sections on news articles overflow with rancor and division. An inside look at the lives of celebrity actors and musicians often reveals chaos, drug addiction, and depression. Based on the media they produce, it’s hard to imagine these celebrities have their minds on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
Christians should pray for all people: that they would know Jesus and His peace. We should also heed the divine instructions given so that we may know it ourselves. Do you find yourself stressed, depressed, or anxious? Do you feel tossed about in an ocean of conflict, waves crashing over you, unsettling your heart and mind?
Turn off false, ugly, impure, violent offerings of the world. Focus on truth. Think about lovely things, things commendable and excellent. Cast your cares on the Lord in prayer, and spend time in His Word, on the God who is good and does good (Psalm 119:68). When you know Him and focus on Him, you will know peace.
Clay Leonard