The world is becoming so sordid! God has given us an imagination. We can use it for good or evil. We can choose to think about whatever is lovely, lovable, gracious. We are not fleeing from reality or our responsibilities when we do this. Rather we are holding up our head above the scum so we do not drown in it. We are looking for the light that shines more and more to the perfect day. We are beholding Jesus instead of the clamor of the world. Then we have peace.

We absolutely must think about whatever is admirable, of good reputation and attractive to us. I think an effort is being made to push us in directions we do not wish to go; to view as desirable that which is naturally repulsive to us. Can this be true?

I remember as a piano student in college being told that the modern composers who were exploring dissonant or atonal music were on the right track. The reason I did not enjoy their music had to do with my previous exposure to our customary major and minor scales, they claimed.

I did not like atonal music then. I do not like atonal music now. It sounds like bedlam to me.

The same is true of modern art. I do not enjoy modern art. I like pictures that portray nature, or country scenes, or something else I can understand. But contortions and weird blobs of paint give me no pleasure.

Then there is the problem of homosexual behavior. There is a constant bombardment of the idea that this is natural and we should come to appreciate those with "different life styles." I have no doubt whatever that there are faithful hearts that beat in the breast of some who practice homosexual behavior. I do not hate people because they are sinners or misguided.

But homosexuality is abhorrent to me as is true of lying, drunkenness, pride, and self-seeking. I am not going to be pushed into believing these behaviors are natural, acceptable, or desirable.

Everyone can say the king is clothed beautifully. I say he is naked and no one is going to persuade me otherwise.

I choose to think about that which is admirable, of good reputation and attractive. I love to see little children waving their flags and praising God in church. I love to see people with the shine of Jesus on their face. I love to think about Paradise. I look forward to ruling and blessing the nations of the earth alongside of the Lord Jesus. All decent people can share such hope with me.

These are what I choose to think about. Such thoughts bring peace to me. How about you?

We must dwell on that which is excellent. I notice that sin brings disorder, slovenliness, confusion, laziness, inaccuracies, destruction. Have you ever been where drugs are used? There is disorder, slovenliness, confusion.

America has been a bright, competent place to be. Some may attribute this to the philosophy of democracy. I do not. I attribute the brightness and competence of America to Protestant Christianity, especially to the early start in Christian godliness and hard work demonstrated by some of the founders of the country.

To be continued.