Inappropriate Movies and Television Shows

As the days go by, more and more people are occupying their time watching movies and television shows. Although there is nothing sinful about watching a movie and watching television, it is sinful to watch things that are not appropriate for Christians to watch. Any show that has vulgar language, taking God's name in vain, showing inappropriate scenes, etc. should not be watched by Christians. We are to fill our minds with purity (Philippians 4:8), and to purify ourselves as Jesus is pure (1 John 3:3). We cannot let our light shine and give glory to God (Matthew 5:16), while filling our minds and thoughts with inappropriate words and material. Before watching anything just ask yourself 1) Would I feel comfortable inviting other Christians, the preacher, elders, deacons and their families to come over and watch the movie or TV program with me? 2) Would I feel comfortable knowing that Jesus Himself was sitting right there next to me watching that movie? The fact is, Jesus is there with you. He knows everything that you watch, etc. I was in one congregation at one time where some of the young people were getting together to watch movies together on a monthly basis. I wondered why my daughter (who was their age) was not invited to come and watch movies with them. I later found out it was because they did not feel comfortable having the "preachers daughter" watch some of the movies that they were watching. Christians (young and old) should be glad to have one another in their homes, sharing "all things common" (Acts 2:44). Christian families should feel confident that when their children visit the homes of other Christians that only wholesome, God approved activities will go on there. May we all strive to keep the words of the apostle Paul in our thoughts: "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (Colossians 3:17).