Last week’s message focused on how holding on to past hurts can rob us of joy—and how prayer and the power of God’s Spirit can help us “lay aside those weights” so we can run with endurance.

This week, let’s take a closer look at how we can improve our outlook—how we can renew our minds and reshape our thinking in ways that cultivate deeper joy.

The Influence of Our Modern World

We live in a time unlike any other. More than ever, we are bombarded daily with accusations, half-truths, conspiracy theories, and endless streams of content. The short-form videos we consume on social media and other platforms are not random—they're carefully curated by algorithms that analyze our interests and preferences. These systems feed us more of what we already agree with, shaping not just our opinions but our overall mindset.

This constant stream of media can have a powerful impact on how we see the world. If we’re not careful, it can lead us toward skepticism, negativity, and a pessimistic view of life—all of which drain our joy. The more we consume, the easier it is to get trapped in a cycle of doubt, anxiety, and unhealthy thinking patterns.

But God doesn’t leave us without answers. The Bible provides timeless wisdom that speaks even to the mental and emotional challenges of our digital age.

A Call to Rejoice and Refocus

Let’s turn to Philippians 4. This chapter contains a powerful formula for guarding our thoughts and maintaining Godly-filled joy. While many of us are familiar with Philippians 4:8, it’s important to consider the context, beginning in verse 4:

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4, NKJV)

Paul emphasizes this twice—rejoice! That’s where joy begins: in actively choosing to rejoice in the Lord. This is one reason we sing hymns of praise throughout our Sabbath services. Rejoicing sets the tone. It reorients our minds and hearts toward God, no matter what we’re facing.

Paul then continues in verses 5–7 with instruction on maintaining a peaceful and godly mindset. And finally, in verse 8, he gives us a practical guide for healthy, joy-filled thinking:

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true,

whatever things are noble,

whatever things are just,

whatever things are pure,

whatever things are lovely,

whatever things are of good report,

if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (Philippians 4:8, NKJV)

A Mindset that Cultivates Joy

Paul’s list is a diagnostic tool. He’s giving us a checklist for our thoughts—an antidote to the mental habits that pull us away from joy.

So here’s a personal challenge: ask yourself regularly, “Is what I’m thinking about…”

• True?
• Honorable and noble?
• Just or worthy of respect?
• Pure and lovely?
• Of good report?
• Praiseworthy?

These are the types of thoughts we are encouraged to meditate on—not just glance at, but dwell on, reflect on, and feed our minds with. It’s a shift in mental diet—and it matters deeply.

Our Role and God's Power

While it is God’s Spirit that empowers real change, we are called to cooperate with that process. That includes being intentional about what we focus on—especially when it comes to the media we consume. Social media, news outlets, and entertainment are not neutral. They shape us.

You might wonder if it’s even possible to find content that meets Paul’s criteria. It is possible—but it takes effort. It requires discernment. And it may require making changes to our habits.

But the result is worth it: a mind that is renewed, a heart that is lightened, and a life filled with greater joy.

Of all people we should be joyful and full of the joy as Paul wrote ^“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NKJV)

Brethren let’s really consider how to be more this way in our thinking, actions and words. 

Have a wonderful Sabbath full of God’s blessings that come from when we follow and live by every word of God in our lives