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Sabbath Challenge: The Negativity Fast
“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)
Ididn’t think it was possible. It worked for me and gave me the mental reset I needed: a Sabbath challenge that anyone can do and from which everyone can benefit.
I had an atrocious week, and the last thing I wanted was someone to recite scripture to cheer me up. Then, I heard a sermon on the book of Philippians in which the pastor urged his listeners to meditate on Philippians 4:8 and focus only on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
Meditating on the good means fasting from the negative, cynical, or disparaging mindsets that many of us are consumed by. Yes, life has its challenges, but taking a day off from the negativity can provide a much-needed rest.
The next time you take a Sabbath rest, try hitting the reset button on your daily routine and make it a point to meditate on the positives around you and thank God for the good in your life. The Amplified translation provides us with a broader explanation of Phil. 4:8, “whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by…
