The world views "nobility" as royalty. The British royal family, or some European elites, are regarded as the "standard" in terms of class, wealth, and nobility. This is, of course, a product of centuries of class divisions, and in modern times, an obsession of the media and culture.
Nobility means something else to God. In our passage above from Philippians 4:8, the word "NOBLE" (or 'of good report') is an adjective with quite a punch. The original Biblical Greek is "euphémos". In this context, euphemos means of good report, reputable and praiseworthy (Strongs 2163).
If we look across the spectrum in public life, not many can fulfill the demands of these attributes. They are attributes. The original meaning of the English words found in this verse (Phil. 4:8) for "meditate or think on these things" imply action. The Biblical Greek word is "logizomai" which means reckon, conclude, decide, reason and more.....all verbs of action. We also get the word "logic" from this Bible word.
The Bible is not just true, inspiring, encouraging and more, but it inspires logic, thought, and positive action. I have a few friends who teach character development. One of them has made a living out of it, by developing an international ministry. Why is so much of the world, especially in certain areas of the United States, the Far East, and some developing countries, captivated by this concept of Nobility in thought, word, and deed?
Why? Because it is an attractive quality and leads only to good things - for families, churches, communities and business. People of Noble Character (which is the true meaning of GOOD REPORT) are:
- Pleasant to be around
- Dignified and courageous, yet as gentle as a lamb.
- Always willing to lend a helping hand of love, friendship and cheerful giving
- Genuinely generous with their time and resources
- Strong and humble. But do not mistake their humility and strength under control as a weakness. What they are exhibiting is the "meekness" which our Lord and Savior Jesus exhibited.
- Willing to mentor, share with, or instruct others in the paths which they can follow to become better-engaged and grounded children of God.
There are many more, but these main qualities of Noble Character, inspired by Godly and a clean mind focused on making the main thing, the main thing, will not just glorify God through our actions, but they will serve to honor Him by showing His people as ones of people of truly "good report".
As stated many times before, our actions are the results of our thoughts. Think on these pure and noble things, and we will stand before God and man, blameless and shining the Truth of His Gospel. Amen
Dear Father, in the Mighty Name of Jesus, help us to seal these truths in our minds: the Truths to the point where if any one of them is not yet second nature, that by the cleansing Blood of Jesus and the washing of Your Holy Word, each attributes or item listed in Philippians 4:8 will become to us, an integral part of our lives, in thought, word and deed, that we may glorify You and become living testimonies to the Glory of God, before God and man, in Jesus' Strong Name, amen.
1 comment:
Amen
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