Praiseworthy

The apostle Paul wrote,

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

— (Philippians 4:8 NIV)

Paul gave great examples of what he meant by praiseworthy things in his short letter to the Philippians. Here are some example of praiseworthy things Paul mentions. 

• Paul thanked God every time he remembered the Philippian Christians (Philippians 1:3 NIV) 
• Paul’s imprisonment actually advanced the Gospel (Philippians 1:12-14 NIV)
• Paul rejoiced that Christ was preached, even when preachers had misguided motives. (Philippians 1:18 NIV)
• It is a noble thing to "in humility, value others above ourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2:3-4)
• Jesus’ example of humility is eternally praiseworthy (Philippians 2:5-8 NIV) 
• It’s admirable to do everything without grumbling or arguing (Philippians 2:14-15 NIV) 
• Paul praises Timothy (Philippians 2:19-23 NIV)
• Paul honors Epaphroditus because “he almost died for the work of Christ” (Philippians 2:30 NIV)
• Becoming like Christ is certainly admirable (Philippians 3:10-11 NIV) 
• Paul rejoices that the Philippian Christians were concerned for him (Philippians 4:10 NIV)

A praiseworthy thing doesn’t have to be elaborate, it can be as simple as a smile, kind word, beautiful sunset, a meal tasting good or at least having a meal. I always find it admirable when I hear another golfer voluntarily disqualified themselves for breaking a rule even when no one else noticed (J.P. Hayes, Christopher Crawford) or someone pays it forward (Matthew Jackson). I love to see people of different races, ages, perspectives, and political parties gathering together with one heart to worship Jesus.

Here’s a quick list of some praiseworthy things that happened to me or I read about in the month of October 2017.

01.

Wallace protecting her dog from the fire in Santa Rosa.

02.

5-year-old Sunshine Oelfke emptied her piggy bank to pay for her friend who couldn’t afford milk.

03.

Iraq war veteran Taylor Winston who stole a truck to save lives during the mass shooting in Las Vegas.

04.

Getting to spend Halloween with my wife, a fighter pilot, a knight, a Superman and a Princess Poppy.

I wonder what praiseworthy things will happen in November.