One principle that was very much a part of the regular teachings of Jesus was the admonition not to worry about tomorrow.  I don't think most people would argue that we struggle mightily with worry.  We call it different names to make it more acceptable but it is still exactly what Jesus was referring to.  We call it being responsible, being a parent, being human, or just having a lot on our minds.  And sure some of this is legitimate, but it is often just a cover up for our efforts to do something that Jesus warned against.  He said do not be anxious about tomorrow.

Perhaps the most powerful tool at our disposal is our attention.  In a world where so much is going on around us and there are so many people and programs trying to gain our attention, the way we direct it becomes very important.   There appear to be two primary problems with attention that most people battle with.  First we have trouble focusing our attention on anything because we are so frayed and distracted.  Secondly we allow our attention to be captured far more than we actually direct it.

Paul was instructing his readers in the book of Philippians regarding the use of their minds.  He did not try to tell them what to think but he listed a series of characteristics that should fit the things they chose to focus their minds upon.  He said whatever things are true and honorable and right and pure and lovely and worthy of praise should be the direction of their thoughts.  Paul clearly emphasized two things in his admonition.  One, he pointed out that the focus of our minds should be our choice and not externally directed by others.  Secondly, he taught that it was important to filter the potential objects of our thought processes and choose those that are worthy.  Let's think about these two important points.