By Nancy Virden (c)2026 AlwaysTheFight.com

Philippians 4:8 agrees with the latest science. Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to rewire itself based on what we choose to think. It reads, “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix [focus]your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” (brackets mine).

This verse is in the context of Paul trying to help settle a dispute between two women who have been arguing. He has already encouraged a mediator to step in, has stated that their anxieties are better settled with God and gratitude, and now, he is guiding them along the way to higher thoughts. It all ends with peace- God’s peace.

Should we choose to think about what is pure and lovely, especially in the middle of a conflict, we will set the fight aside and consider what is good about the other person. We will not make up false accusations or act on assumptions but instead will look for the benefit of the doubt.

What is admirable about this person? If we honestly do not know, we can make time to find out. What is their story? Perhaps if we had their experiences, we would be similar in our beliefs and attitudes?

Even if the divide is deeper than that, we can remember that the ground is even at the foot of the cross. We are no better than anyone, and we all need God’s grace. Can we offer it to this person with whom we so vehemently disagree?

If we move on to what is excellent, it is God’s mercy and love. The only One who is praiseworthy is God Himself. In the middle of conflict, we can pause and thank God for Who He is (Almighty, Good, Love) and allow the Holy Spirit to soften our hearts until there is peace.

By practicing to fix our thoughts on what is good, we will rewire our brain. Anxiety, anger, depression, complaining, and more will have a tougher time becoming huge factors in our lives.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Philippians 4:7 

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

If you are feeling suicidal or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S., call 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. For a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room; in the EU, call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here.) Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. 

NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional and speaks only from personal experience and observations. This website is not intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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