Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things. 4:9 And what you learned and received and heard and saw in me, do these things. And the God of peace will be with you.

This passage has been quoted at weddings and funerals, it graces quilts and placards in homes, and is probably the second most memorized verse in Scripture (the first being John 3:16). That may be in part due to its repetitive nature, but mostly because of its very uplifting and positive message. The Greek word translated “whatever is” appears seven times in the original language, but it what this phrase points to that lifts the hearts of readers. Ancient writers were fond of listing virtues, and Paul is no exception. Truthfully, I think modern readers are equally inspired be them.

Whatever is true… Paul instructs his readers to think about things that are true, but what does that mean? As far as I know, most people don’t spend their time thinking about things they know are lies, but I know a lot of time is wasted on thinking about things they wish were true. Fantasy, day-dreams, and wishful thinking may be fun ways to pass time, but they take our focus away from reality, that which is true. Everyone needs a break from their daily life, and from thinking about their troubles. But instead of fantasizing about winning the lottery how much better is it to spend our time thinking about family, God’s love, or even Scripture.

Whatever is worthy of respect… God, his Word, certain people and ideals are all worthy of respect and thoughtful admiration.

Whatever is just… Those thoughts guided by truth, reason, justice and fairness are the things we ought to focus on. Not revenge or petty arguments, not about things we wish we would have said (or not said) in the heat of conflict, but rather by that which is just.

Whatever is pure… Rather than lustful fantasy, goals of greed, or satisfying addictions we are to think on purity, joy, loved ones and anything that is free of sinful ambition.

Whatever is lovely… When we think of “lovely” our first thought might be to a handsom or beautiful person, a flower, or perhaps a painting or work of art. These are things that strike us emotionally first, rather than intellectually, which is why Paul chose to include it here. Our thoughts often stem from our emotions, and understanding this can help us maintain discipline.

Whatever is commendable… When a soldier does a remarkable job on the battlefield, he is up for a commendation. The world values accomplishment and success, but this isn’t what Paul has in mind. God’s standards are different from the world’s. What are the things God rewards us for? Loving others, caring for the lost, helping the downtrodden, forgiving wrongs – these are all commendable in kingdom of heaven.

Whatever is excellent… The Greek word here is more accurately translated as “virtue” or “moral excellence”. The idea is to not focus on sinful behavior or the desires of the flesh, but rather on the things God desires of us.

Whatever is praiseworthy… Similar to commendable, praiseworthy is anything worthy of admiration. The kinds of things God admires are a persons faith, righteousness and good deeds.

Think on these things. This list of virtues should provide us with enough to keep our minds from wandering toward sinful fantasy and other forms of dissipation.

Imitate me. Paul once again calls the people to imitate his behavior. By thinking rightly and behaving righteously we can be free of worry, doubt and other anxiety producing concerns and know the peace of God.