Read Philippians 4:8

During my career as a high school basketball coach, I worked with some young men and young women who could confidently focus on the positive. They believed they were going to make the next shot. The successful players were able to envision the ball going through the net.

You know – swish.

They knew from experience that negative thoughts ruin their efforts. Some of the players would get in “foul trouble” and have to spend time on the bench. Each had a different technique to help maintain focus until the crucial moment when I would insert them back into the game. Some would talk about other things with teammates. Others would sit by themselves at the end of the bench. Still others would sit next to me and stay focused on the game.

Eventually these players do what the apostle Paul suggests we do in whatever situation we find ourselves: focus on the positive – focus our thoughts on things that are noble, pure, good and right. On the basketball court, in our homes or at work, when we think of our spouses, our children, friends, or coworkers, we should fix our thoughts on what is noble and positive. We should think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Adopting a positive attitude, even when you’re under pressure or the odds seem to be stacked against you, can really help assure a positive outcome. Thinking of people in a positive light changes how you treat them.

So, thinking about what is noble is part of the teaching of this verse.

A definition of noble is having personal qualities that people admire – such as honesty, generosity and courage.

A part of being noble means to be honest – in every part of life. Honesty is to know, do and say what is right. It is how you act and live. It is to be genuine and not deceptive. Are you all-in?

When you are asked a question, what is needed is a thoughtful, compassionate answer.

“All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” – Matthew 5:37

Another part of being noble means to be generous. “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” (Prov 11:25) What are some ways that you can be generous to others?

In my view, to be noble means outstanding character all of the time. Not just some of the time. Exemplary character!

You apply this by thinking about it and trying to live like Jesus. This is how He wants us to live. It’s something to think about every day.

Do you think about what is noble?

Tom Weckesser