Philippians 4:8 (NIV) ~ Finally, brothers, 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.
The word “whatever” is used six times in this one verse, and then we find it again in verse nine. They are as follows:
- Whatever is true
- Whatever is noble
- Whatever is right
- Whatever is pure
- Whatever is lovely
- Whatever is admirable
- Whatever you have learned
The Greek word for “whatever” is hosos, meaning how great; how much and everything. The word “whatever” is not used in a dismissive or arrogant manner. Moreover, it is used to draw attention to the leading statements, “whatever is…”, and “whatever you have learned.” Therefore, we can see that though the world has tried to hijack the word “whatever” and use it with a negative connotation, God has used it in a positive way.
The apostle Paul goes on to use the word “whatever” like a jewel in a crown in these two verses of Scripture, to highlight a glorious principle of Kingdom living. The Bible says in Philippians 4:9 (NIV), “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Notice if you will, the four things Paul puts emphasizes:
- Learned
- Received
- Heard
- Or seen in me
In other words, Paul is saying, “Whatever Christ-like attributes, whatever fruit of the Holy Spirit, whatever Godly lifestyle has been in any way reflected in my life, imitate and put into practice.”
My friend, the word “whatever” is one which will cause us to stop and focus our attention on the next word or action. The Apostle Paul, in our text for today, is asking us a leading question, with the word “whatever”. Paul does not elaborate on the attributes or qualities that we are to put into practice, rather, he mentions them only briefly, thereby drawing us, enticing us, as it were, to take a closer look and examine them, and then work them into our own lives. Whatever is found within Jesus Christ can be found in everyone one of Paul’s statements. Furthermore, he then goes on to say in Philippians 4:9 (NIV), “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” When we think upon Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God, His peace will guard our hearts and minds, which will promote a more Christ-centered life.
God bless you my friend, Matthew.
