7-Day Devotional Guide

“Think About Such Things: Whatever Is Excellent or Praiseworthy”

Philippians 4:8

Day 1 – A Higher Standard

Scripture: Philippians 4:8 

Thought: Paul ends his list with a challenge: if there’s anything excellent or praiseworthy—set your mind there. He’s not limiting your options; he’s lifting your standard. Excellence and praise are found wherever God’s goodness shines. A mountain climber doesn’t settle halfway up; the summit is always in sight. Paul calls believers to aim for the summit of thought. 

Reflect: What would it look like to raise the standard of your thinking this week?

Day 2 – Excellence Defined

Scripture: Colossians 3:23-24


Thought: Biblical excellence isn’t perfection—it’s wholehearted devotion. We honor God when we give our best effort in the tasks He’s given us. A craftsman signs his name under the surface of his work—not where anyone will see, but where he knows it’s done with care. 

Reflect: In what area of life could you quietly improve your excellence “for the Lord, not for men”?

Day 3 – Praiseworthy Perspective

Scripture: Matthew 5:16 

Thought: “Let your light shine…” A praiseworthy life draws attention not to us, but to God. When others see His character in our kindness, integrity, and gratitude, praise naturally rises to heaven. A clean mirror doesn’t attract attention—it reflects light. 

Reflect: How might your actions this week reflect God’s goodness more clearly?

Day 4 – Feeding the Right Things

Scripture: Colossians 3:2 

Thought: Our minds are gardens. Whatever we feed will grow—faith or fear, peace or worry. Setting your mind “on things above” is daily gardening of the soul. Gardeners pull weeds not once but continually. Excellence in thought takes the same persistence. 

Reflect: What thoughts need uprooting? What truths need watering today?

Day 5 – Replace, Don’t Just Resist

Scripture: Romans 12:2 

Thought: We can’t simply stop wrong thinking—we must replace it with God’s truth. Renewal comes through saturation in what is good and godly. A cup of muddy water becomes clear only as pure water keeps pouring in. 

Reflect: What verse, song, or truth will you pour into your mind today?

Day 6 – The Beauty of Christ’s Excellence

Scripture: Philippians 2:5-11 

Thought: Jesus is the model of divine excellence—humble, obedient, and glorified. To “have this mind” means letting His attitude shape ours. Michelangelo saw angels in blocks of marble and carved until he set them free. God is shaping His image in you the same way. 

Reflect: Where do you see Christ chiseling excellence into your character?

Day 7 – A Life Worth Praising

Scripture: Psalm 150:6 

Thought: Praise is both the goal and overflow of a God-focused life. When our minds dwell on what is excellent, our hearts naturally turn to worship. A tuning fork sets the right pitch; once it sounds, every instrument adjusts. Praise tunes the soul to heaven’s frequency. 

Reflect: What specific reason can you praise God for today? Write it down—and share it with someone.