After someone is baptized, it is critical that they continue to be taught the things that they must “know” and “do” (as studied in two previous articles). The strength of a Christian’s faith and character will be determined in large part by how he trains his mind to think and to not think. Proverbs 23:7 states, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Here are some things on which a Christian needs to set the mind!
Set your mind on true things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are manifestly true-to-fact and honest! What does that imply about things that are fallacious or deceitful?
Set your mind on noble things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are honorable and serious! What does that imply about things that are irreverent or disrespectful?
Set your mind on just things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are righteous and acceptable to God! What does that imply about things that are dishonest or corrupt or unfair?
Set your mind on pure things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are holy and chaste! What does that imply about things that are immoral or immodest or indecent?
Set your mind on lovely things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are pleasing and agreeable to God! What does that imply about things that are vile or offensive or unpleasant?
Set your mind on commendable things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are of an appropriately good report! What does that imply about things that are inappropriate or unprofitable or shameful?
Set your mind on virtuous things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are morally good and intrinsically excellent! What does that imply about things that are unethical or vulgar?
Set your mind on praiseworthy things (Phil. 4:8)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are worthy of praise and approval from God! What does that imply about things that are dishonorable to God or unapproved by Him?
Set your mind on things above (Col. 3:2)! Our minds should meditate on those things that are heavenly and spiritual! What does that verse state explicitly about things that are of this earth or of a base nature?
Set your mind fully on the Lord (Matt. 22:37)! Our minds should meditate on those things that help us to express to our God that we love Him with all our mind!