Description

In today’s world of heightened tension, anger, and deep division, how do we safeguard our emotional and spiritual wellbeing, and how can we practice kindness in our everyday interactions?

Pastor Jill J. Duffield offers profound guidance rooted in Paul’s advice found in Philippians 4:8: “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

Duffield suggests that intentionally reflecting upon, recognizing, and appreciating these eight concepts can profoundly shift our perspectives and open our hearts and minds. By a renewed awareness of goodness, excellence, and commendable qualities, we learn to nourish compassion—not only for ourselves but also for those who experience distress and even those whose opinions we naturally oppose. Through insightful stories and thoughtful reflections, Duffield guides readers toward a deeper appreciation of these values, reshaping their view of the world—and potentially reshaping the world itself.

Structured into eight chapters, each containing five reflections, “Appreciate These Things” is suitable for personal spiritual practice, an eight-week small-group study, or simply as an uplifting and motivating individual read.