I realize there are Christians who have jobs that require them to be informed, but this is currently not my case. I find it disheartening to hear the gory details of sinful depraved man. When I check a news website once or twice a day I learn enough from the headlines themselves; I don't need the information overload presented in the actual stories. I don't have time to watch the news on TV and I don't miss it.
- An overabundance of negative news leads to callousness. I become a bit cynical when I'm inundated with generic bad news. I would rather learn of the difficulties affecting individuals I know and keep them in my prayers.
- All this negative news leads to a depressing outlook. It begins to seem like the world is not a safe place to be and I should just purchase some bulletproof glass and never venture outside my house. Instead I must realize God has a purpose for my life and it includes interacting with unbelievers and fellowshiping with a local church.
- I don't want my daughter being exposed to information she doesn't need. We are born with depraved hearts so why would I purposely allow my daughter to learn of sinful details she just doesn't need to know? I don't plan on insulating her completely, but there's no need to hasten her exposure to certain sinful practices.
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. " Philippians 4:8 Do the news channels we watch, the web sites we visit and the magazines we read violate this verse? I have found it necessary to hide the news feeds of several friends on Facebook as I don't need to know certain details about them. Ephesians 5:11-13 "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light."
I know each person must follow God's leading when it comes to personal convictions. I must say that I try to choose to be exposed to the Good News if I have a choice between it and listening to/watching what is happening in this fallen world.
I can't agree more with you. That is exactly how I see it. Yes, I want to be prepared but not poisoned. I think I can prepare for what God wills and ordains without filling up on negativity and dirty laundry. I want compassion and not calloused sentimentality. The point you made about desensitization is spot on; as are the verses you've picked. Thank you for bringing this to light.
ReplyDelete