Things that are true, honest, just, pure, and lovely
Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
-- The Apostle Paul (Philippians 4:8)
I guess everybody would have their own list. Mine starts with Jesus and Heaven and peace on earth, safety and security, love and belonging, success, progress, prosperity, worship, prayer, freedom, justice, harmonious community, music, sports played without cheating, baseball fields, football fields, soccer fields, golf courses, clean water, fresh air, good food, artful cooking, the laughter of children playing, the sighing of a breeze through a pine forest, profits from an honest business, teamwork, care of the weak by the strong, the rule of law, the impartial administration of justice, freedom from warrantless search and seizure, habeas corpus, freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom of the press, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, the Magna Carta, the separation of powers, checks and balances, free and fair elections, the peaceful transfer of power, a peaceful and sound home, good health, freedom from pain and sickness, honesty, amnesty, forgiveness, healing, loyalty, trust and trustworthiness, truth, learning, education without political bias or ulterior motive, reason, discernment, wisdom, logic, knowledge and the love of knowledge, the rights of the accused, mercy, honor, a good reputation well earned, kindness, gentleness, meekness, self-control, optimism, strength, sanity, courage, hygiene, creativity, invention, stars, hope, visions of a better world.
This is just the beginning of the list. I thank God for all these blessings, and pray God's help to preserve, protect, strengthen, and multiply them.
Phil Jones
www.sunriseministries.org
