Introduction to Excellent or Praiseworthy

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything be excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” — Philippians 4:8

Welcome to Excellent or Praiseworthy, a devotional for military marriages. It is our goal to minister to you and to help you think about things which will refresh and comfort you during this time of war. We want you to have hope! We know that there is a battle in the mind—a spiritual battle against discouragement and fear. But for those who persevere under trial there are great promises. Consider these:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” — James 1:2-4

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.” — Romans 5:3-5

Do you believe that suffering in itself produces perseverance? Or is it the rejoicing in suffering that will result in perseverance, then character, and then hope? Perhaps you are thinking that there is no way to rejoice in the challenges that you are enduring right now. As the days go by, we will explore how the renewing of your mind can bring about joy and hope. So please stay with us as we bring to you the things of the LORD that are excellent or praiseworthy.

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” — Romans 15:4