WHATEVER

One of the most popular expressions in contemporary culture that is heard when someone no longer wants to discuss a subject is, “Whatever!” In todays culture “Whatever” means, “I’m done with this conversation.” “Whatever” does not mean, “Whatever you say” or, “I’ll do what you are recommending.” “Whatever” is often used as a distancing maneuver to get people ‘off your back.’ The biblical writer, Paul, used the word “whatever” numerous times. However, Paul’s use of this word was very different from our day. On one of these occasions Paul was encouraging the Philippians to be full of joy, be free of worry, experience God’s peace and live with renewed thinking. Then, Paul gave his secret to avoiding a “whatever mentality.”

PAUL SAYS THE SECRET TO being free from a ‘whatever attitude’ is in your thoughtlife. Paul wrote, “…whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely and admirable…think on these things…put into practice all that you have learned..” (4. 8,9). Again, being free of a ‘whatever mentality’ begins in our thoughtlife. If you are wanting to have a fresh way of looking at difficult issues be reminded, "My thoughts are completely different from yours," says the Lord. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine and… my thoughts higher than your thoughts." (Is. 55.8)