Let your mind dwell on these things...

Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is rights, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.
Philippians 4:8

This verse is a good reminder to help us not succumb to being overwhelmed by our world.  Of course!  It totally makes sense that what you allow yourself to think about, to read about, to look at, will affect how you feel about life.  For this week and next, we will look at the phrases in this verse and what they mean.

Whatever is true... According to Webster's Dictionary, something that is true is defined as, steadfast, loyal, honest, just, being in accordance with the actual state of affairs, conformable to an essential reality, consistent, legitimate, functions accurately, accurate, logically necessary, corrected for error.

So, thinking about what is true (according to the above definition) can change my perspective.  For example, when experiencing a difficult circumstance, I can think about what is true about the circumstance and, therefore, eliminate what is not true.  And, believe me, my imagination can come up with lots of variables and I find myself worrying over things that aren't even real!  When I've sorted the truth from the lies, it becomes easier to deal with the true aspects of the circumstance - the things I can change and the things I can't change.  My prayers become more specific and less emotional. 

Another example is what happens when I watch TV or read a book, a paper, a magazine or the Internet.  I have to constantly compare what I am watching or reading to what I know is true.  I could be deceived in my thinking, otherwise, and could easily find myself living according to those deceptions. 

The last example for today is thinking about my honey and how he can be described as true.  The words that especially stand out from Webster's definition are:  steadfast, loyal, honest, consistent, and a teachable spirit in which he lets God correct him for error.

What things do you need to think about today that are true?


Today's Recipe - Mandarin Cashew Salad
I can't remember where I got this recipe...
 
1 head Romaine, cut into bite-size pieces
1 head red leaf lettuce, cut into bite-size pieces
4 - 11 oz cans mandarin oranges, drained
1 avocado, cut into chunks
2 cups honey roasted cashews
Mix in a large bowl.  Add dressing before serving and toss lightly.

Dressing:
1/2 cup light olive oil
1/2 cup honey
1 tsp ground mustard
1/2 tsp grated lime zest
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper