Friday, January 08, 2021

Are you Noble?

What do you think of when you hear the word “Noble”?

Your mind might head to the first definition:

Belonging to a hereditary class with high social or political status; aristocratic.

But I don’t think that is what Paul was talking about in Philippians when he encouraged us think about things that are noble: — I mean he’s not saying “spend your time thinking about aristocrats of our society.  He’s actually wanting us to focus on this definition

Having or showing fine personal qualities or high moral principles and ideals.

Do you know someone who is noble?  Someone who not only has great qualities that you admire but who lives by high moral principles?  We are privileged to work with many people who are noble.  I also have many friends in that category.  

Ever wonder why Paul included that in his list of things to think about when we are anxious?  Here’s my theory.

When we think of things, or people, that are noble it makes us want to be noble as well doesn’t it?  Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I wish I could be more like _____”?

There’s no real test for nobility — but you know what that looks like for you.   It seems as though Paul is saying that if we shift our anxiety and worry into thoughts about the nobility of others and how we can become more like them it shifts our focus from what is happening to us to what we can make happen to become more of who he wants me to be.

This may not be making sense to you, but it is making sense to me, which you might conclude makes me weird, but there you have it. :-)

And now, for a real twist, how about turning to Micheal Jackson for some spiritual wisdom.  The lyrics to this song are amazing.  I had heard it before but never read the lyrics or seen the video.   Check it out.  (and I have no idea why blogger isn't recognizing this as a link so sorry you have to cut and paste.  It will be worth it, I promise.

https://youtu.be/PivWY9wn5ps

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