Whatever Is Noble
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8
When I hear the word “noble” I tend to think of things that are proper or of royal status, such as ladies in white dresses with big hats, gloves that go to their elbows, sitting with backs straight in a parlor. Or the Lord of the Manor in a tuxedo with a top hat, standing with one arm behind his back and the other positioned to take the arm of a lady. It reminds me of a scene right out of Downton Abbey…well, the upstairs anyway.
The word “noble” in this verse represents value and worth in terms of character. It has little to do with money or societal status. However, it does have much to do with things that are good, things that are worth your time, or that add value to your life, such as God and His Word.
Paul urges us to think on noble or proper things because WE are worth more. When we fill our minds with garbage, we tend to devalue ourselves as less than what we truly are in God’s eyes.
When you accept Jesus as your Savior you become a child of God with an inheritance that can never spoil or fade (1 Peter 1:3-12). You have nobility! Therefore, your thoughts and actions should reflect who you are in Christ.
Did you also notice in the list of things to think on that Paul gives us in these verses…these are all attributes of God? All things true, right, pure, lovely, admirable, noble…this is who God is…and so much more. And we reflect His image.
God bless you.
Heather Hanton
Ministries and Media Specialist
The Salvation Army USA Central Territory
Women’s Ministries Department
