I’m going to talk about something a little bit different today. It’s something that I’m very passionate about—and for me a topic that I believe we should all consider and find a solution for. It’s the answer to the question, “As a Christian, where do I draw the line… with the media I consume?”
People can get confused on where that line is. When I refer to “the media,” it could be anything from the movies and shows we watch, or the music or comedy we listen to, etc.
There are many times where people are stumped on where to draw that line. It’s not always so clear. But what I want to draw attention to is a method. A simple method that can help make some grey areas, clear. To simplify how to figure out what to watch, listen or expose ourselves too. Especially in today’s world, this a lot harder than it used to be. But I think entirely possible.
The Bible is of a great assistance to me and I believe that the moral principles in it, greatly help clarify what media we should expose ourselves to. As I was saying, this is what helps me. I’ve been asked before how I choose what to watch or listen to.
Now I’m not perfect and I can make mistakes, but I mostly try to ask myself three questions when I’m faced with the choice on what boundaries to put for myself.
The three questions are based on a passage found in 1 Corinthians 10:23 and verse 31 of the same chapter.
”All things are lawful," but not all things are helpful. "All things are lawful," but not all things build up.” - 1 Corinthians 10:23
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” - 1 Corinthians 10:31
When asking myself where I should draw the line, I ask these three questions:
Is it helpful?
Does it build up?
Does it glorify God?
If I can say yes to these questions, then I think the decision is clear and simple. If some of the answers are a no, it calls for further wisdom in the matter. Again, as a believer, the Bible becomes my guide.
I would turn to Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
Now you might look at these passages and think, “Oh my I can’t watch anything!” Well I guess you could say that there is a higher standard on what we should and should not watch as Christians. Following Jesus does come at a cost. Being different does come at a cost.
If we try to be better in anything it comes at some kind of a cost. It’s not any different than trying to be at the top of your class, or becoming successfully independent. Those things require a higher standard of intentional study, effort, and consistency.
To get better results, you must sacrifice passiveness for action and tolerance for a stand.
If we are to be a people of a higher standard, then naturally less things are considered acceptable.
Not all things build up, are helpful, or glorify God. If your faith is in Christ, wouldn’t you want to be more like Christ? If putting godly Biblical boundaries makes you more like Him, then this should be your heart.
Again, this is just food for thought. This helps me decide. I hope it can give you some direction in how to decide where you draw the line.
Shared with love! xoxo