“Finally, brethren, whatever is true…honorable…right…pure…lovely…of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. The things you have heard and seen in me, practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you” (Philippians 4:8-9).
One time as a high school mass media teacher, I had to reign in the seniors in my classes because, in the course of doing their projects for each medium, they were trying to shock (and delight) their classmates with inappropriate examples of popular media. I had to approve anything questionable, but this group tried to slip things by me.
One student talk radio production, ala Howard Stern, executed admirably as far as technical merit was concerned, didn’t see the light of day. After pre-viewing it, I gave them the option of cleaning up the crude language, but I couldn’t tell what had changed in revision. I then told them they could have their parents pick up the tape, but they declined. As you can imagine, I wasn’t very popular with these sophisticated seniors from that point on.
While weighing my course of action, I remembered this passage from Paul’s letter to the Philippians. It was my gauge for decency and personal goal for the rest of the year in mass media, though I taught in public school. I took a hard line, as far as some students were concerned, but never regretted standing on that principle.
Lead Me
If you’re finding yourself troubled when attempting to enjoy entertainment in our post-modern culture, pray with these verses in mind: “Lord, help me discover those things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellent, and worthy of praise. Lead me to them for my own peace of mind. I want to practice what I’ve read in Your Word which contributes to the Still Life. Help me to dwell here, as I make choices. Amen.”
Choose “Whatever is…” and eliminate the others, despite advertising deceptions and peer pressure. If you get fooled, as I have a few times, learn from those experiences and forge ahead. It’s worth it to discern the worthy and true from the gross and foolish. There are always substitutes, though you may find yourself spending less time with commercial TV or the usual Friday night flick. I’ve had to scan the library catalog often to search out enjoyable fare. That’s okay, because the alternative is in my best interest. I prize peace and excellence above all else.
Worthy
Thank you for the cross, Lord
Thank you for the price You paid.
Bearing all my sin and shame;
In love You came,
And gave amazing grace.
Thank you for this love, Lord
Thank you for your nail-pierced hands.
Washed me in Your cleansing flow,
Now all I know,
Your forgiveness and embrace.
Worthy is the Lamb,
Seated on the throne;
Crown You now with many crowns,
You reign victorious.
High and lifted up,
Jesus, Son of God;
Darling of Heaven crucified,
Worthy is the Lamb,
Worthy is the Lamb.
Happy Easter, He is risen!
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