One of the most valuable—and easiest—skills I ever learned was that of “praying the Bible.” I’ve experienced great joy and effectiveness in not only reading God’s Word but also in praying His words back to Him. For decades, I’ve prayed a daily verse for my children and (now) grandchildren. I pray the Psalms. (Pray the psalms) I pray the Bible in the morning and in the evening.
Among my favorite places in the Bible to turn to when I pray is Philippians 4:8. Paul, the great first-century church planter and letter writer, told the church in Philippi:
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).
Thinking about such things naturally turns my mind to praying for those I love, those I meet and especially those I don’t know much about.
How does it work? Easy. For example, I might pray for my daughter, “Lord, today let her be guided by the truth of Your Word. Let her actions be noble and right. Keep her motives pure. Enhance her natural loveliness with the beauty of Your presence. Make every choice she makes an admirable one, let her work today be characterized by excellence and her conduct in everything be praiseworthy.”
Or I might pray for myself: “Gracious God, open my eyes today to whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—give me eyes to see and the grace to give You thanks for it all.”
I might see a post on social media asking for prayer without offering any details, so I’ll pray, “Father, I don’t know this person’s need of the moment, but whatever it is, let whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—and excellent or praiseworthy—flood into his situation and meet his need.”
The simple words of Philippians 4:8 provide a powerful, purposeful and positive pattern for every kind of situation. It’s worth memorizing the verse (if you haven’t already) so you can pray it in private or public whenever a need arises. Try it, and let the truth and beauty of this rich Bible verse enhance and empower your prayers.
