A few years ago, a video went viral on the internet.
It showed a young man on a crowded train, quietly standing so an elderly woman could take his seat. No fanfare, no expectation of reward – just a simple act of dignity. The comments poured in: “Restores my faith in humanity!” “We need more people like this!” Why did this moment resonate so deeply? Because, even in a world obsessed with self-promotion and instant gratification, our souls long for nobility – actions and attitudes that rise above the ordinary and reflect something higher, something honourable.
Think On Whatever is Noble – What Does Paul Mean?
Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 4:8, “Whatever is noble…think about such things”-challenges us to set our minds on what is dignified, honourable, and worthy of respect. The Greek word translated as “noble” (semnós) carries the sense of seriousness, gravity, and moral weight. It’s about more than good manners or social status; it’s about cultivating a mindset that esteems integrity, reverence, and moral excellence. For Christians, nobility isn’t about social status; it’s about living in a way that “commands respect without demanding it” (1 Timothy 3:8, Titus 2:2).
To “think on” what is noble means to intentionally fill our minds with things that inspire respect and elevate our character. This discipline shapes not only our thoughts but also our actions, as what fills our minds inevitably overflows into our words and deeds
Jesus, the Noble
Jesus’ life is the perfect embodiment of nobility – not in the sense of earthly rank, but in the dignity and honour with which He treated every person. Consider His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). By engaging her in conversation, Jesus broke through social, ethnic, and moral barriers, bestowing dignity on someone society had cast aside. He saw her not as an outcast, but as a person of worth, inviting her into the fullness of God’s love.
Similarly, when Jesus called Zacchaeus down from the tree (Luke 19), He ignored the crowd’s scorn and instead affirmed Zacchaeus’ value. This act of honour transformed Zacchaeus, leading him to repentance and restitution. Jesus’ nobility was not about self-exaltation, but about lifting others up, seeing their God-given dignity, and treating them accordingly.
Paul describes this quality in Philippians 2:5-7, where Jesus, though equal with God, “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant.” His humility, integrity, and compassion set the standard for what it means to be noble.
The Early Church: Practising Truth Together
The early church understood that nobility wasn't restricted to Jesus alone but was to characterise His followers. Perhaps the clearest example comes from Acts 17, where the Bereans are explicitly praised for their "noble character". Their nobility wasn't expressed through wealth or titles but through their approach to truth, eagerly receiving Paul's teaching while diligently examining Scripture to verify its claims.
Peter instructed believers to "keep your conduct among the Gentiles honourable" so that even those who opposed Christianity would ultimately glorify God (1 Peter 2:12). This honourable conduct served as both a witness to the Gospel and a refutation of false accusations against believers.
In the Pauline letters, nobility becomes a qualification for church leadership. Deacons, elders' wives, and older men were all instructed to demonstrate this quality of dignified character worthy of respect. Noble conduct wasn't optional for early Christians – it was fundamental to their witness.
Application
Here are some practical steps to consider applying at this stage:
- Develop thoughtful discernment in media consumption. The noble-minded Bereans "examined the Scriptures daily" Similarly, we should evaluate what influences our thinking.
- Practice dignified speech that builds others up. A noble character is evident in how we communicate, both in person and online.
- Pursue Integrity: Let your private life match your public life. Do what is right, even when no one is watching. As Paul wrote, “Do what is honourable” (2 Corinthians 13:7). If you struggle, ask the Holy Spirit for strength to act with integrity.
- Engage Scripture Eagerly: Like the Bereans, approach God’s Word with eagerness and discernment. Let Scripture shape your understanding of what is truly noble, rather than letting culture set the standard
- Model Noble Character: Whether at work, home, or church, let your actions reflect the dignity of Christ. Be a peacemaker, a truth-teller, a servant leader. Your example can inspire others to pursue nobility as well.
The world may not always notice the quiet acts of honour and dignity, but God does. In a culture hungry for what is real and uplifting, your commitment to “think on whatever is noble” can have a ripple effect – restoring hope, inspiring faith, and pointing others to Christ.
Just as that young man’s simple act on the train inspired thousands, your daily choices to honour God and others can shine light in unexpected places. Nobility isn’t just for the few; it’s a calling for every follower of Jesus. As we fix our minds on what is noble, let God use our lives to reflect the quiet power of His Kingdom.
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
Next Steps
Reflect: How do you define noble? What examples have you seen lately of someone being noble or honourable?
Pray: Father, thank you for your Son, who embodied what it is to be honourable. As we look to Him, focus our minds on what it means to be noble and let that shape our words and actions for your glory, Lord.
Act: Every day this week, write the words “noble” and “honourable” somewhere you can see them. Refer to them two or three times a day to trigger your thoughts on what it means to be noble and treat others in an honourable way.
