The Process to Enjoy God’s PEACE
Philippians 4:8 - “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Philippians 4:9 - “Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
Saturating the mind with godly virtues is the beginning of the process of enjoying the peace of God. It does not stop there. The Apostle Paul stresses the need to emulate and observe these from someone’s life.
I find this idea interesting but essential. It is not enough to only claim to know the virtue by declaring it. What is important is to observe or show it.
Paul uses himself as an example, and he seems confident that these virtues are indeed seen in his life. He would not have been so confident if he knew they were not true in him.
Four processes are implied here by Paul for these virtues to provide peace;
1.It must be learned (cognitive).
The mind has to be primarily involved. There must be a proper understanding for effective application.
2.It must be received (decisive).
Once the mind learns its significance, there has to be a deliberate decision made to apply or not to apply these virtues.
3.It must be heard (Instructive).
The virtue must be taught and emphasized. Hearing the virtue as a way to instruct implies that it is essential.
4.It must be seen (productive)
The virtues must be recognized. This carries the idea of seeing the effectiveness of these virtues and how good and wonderful they are when seen in someone’s life.
Conclusion
All these involve the mind or the cognitive process to comprehend the meaning, purpose, and blessings they give. When that is accomplished, there is the desire to apply them in doing what is right and godly.
A good thing is useless if it is not applied or seen in our behavior. When it is used, then the benefits are enjoyed. One special blessing the Apostle Paul wants us to enjoy is PEACE.