{Philippians 4:8} Finally, brothers, ... if there is any moral excellence, and if there is any praise, think about these things. -- RLIV.
The Greek word rendered above as "moral excellence" can refer to valor. Many translations render as "virtue." As applied to the Christian's thoughts, it should not be understood as simply abstaining from evil thoughts, but also of thinking on all the principles of right conduct in God's sight.
Of course, one who belongs to Christ should not be thinking of seeking praise for himself, but at the same time, should be seeking to ponder any elements of character that are praiseworthy in harmony with the righteous principles given in the Bible.
Nevertheless, it is our mind, our thoughts within ourselves that determines who we really are. One may have an outward appearance of love and caring, but the outward appearance may not be what is in the heart. (Proverbs 23:7) We should be always be striving to control our thoughts to harmonize with love for God and Christ, for fellow believers, and for neighbor, which basically means to bring our thoughts in harmony with the admonition given by the apostle Paul. It is by our thoughts that these characteristics truly become our own, and our thoughts then produce the righteous qualities in action.
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