Today, movies and TV shows are accessible through streaming services, cable, DVD, and even online. This gives us unlimited access to a plethora of content, including violent scenes and offensive language. Watching this type of content can be traumatic for impressionable minds or have adverse effects on our lives. So, what does The Bible say about watching bad things?
The Bible explains that humans should not let any type of “unwholesome” thing take root in them. This includes any type of negative influence, including the things that are seen and heard through television. In Ephesians 4:29, The Bible states, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” This passage serves as a reminder that type of communication we should be using and how it affects the people around us.
In Colossians 3:17, The Bible states, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” This passage suggests that when it comes to our words and deeds, we should always be living life through the name of Jesus and expressing our gratitude. It’s a reminder to watch what we watch, listen to what we listen to, and interact with what we interact with.
Psalm 101:3 in The Bible states, “I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.” This quotation has been interpreted to mean that people should not be looking at, listening to, or otherwise participating in any type of evil or wickedness in the world. Instead, people should focus on joining the work of God and making it a priority.
When it comes to our time in front of the TV or computer, we must be mindful of the type of content that we are absorbing. Anything that goes against the word of The Bible — like violence, profanity, and sexual immorality — should be avoided.
Television and Social Media
In addition to TV and movies, people are also exposed to a variety of offensive material through social media. The Bible has some direct warnings about the use of social media, such as Proverbs 16:27: “An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.” This is a good reminder to recognize the dangers and implications of the digital world and a warning to stay away from it.
In Ephesians 5:11, The Bible states, “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” This passage serves as an invitation to recognize the uses and misuses of technology and to uncover the intentions behind each post. It also encourages us to avoid participating in whatever goes against The Bible’s teachings and to take action when necessary.
The Bible also warns us not to be complacent and overconfident. Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” This passage serves as a warning to guard ourselves against pride or excessive confidence. It also serves as a reminder not to get too focused on others’ opinions or actions, but to maintain the right attitude.
Bad Company
The Bible also has some instruction on the people we surround ourselves with. 1 Corinthians 15:33 states, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” This passage serves as a warning that spending too much time around certain people can have a negative influence on us.
In a similar vein, Proverbs 13:20 in The Bible states, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” This says that if we associate ourselves with wise members of society, we will become wise ourselves. On the other hand, it warns that if we surround ourselves with people looking for trouble, the consequences won’t be good.
Technology Addictions
The Bible also talks about technology addictions in Colossians 3:2, which states, “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” This passage serves as a reminder that we must remember to remain focused on God rather than on our phones and devices. It suggests that we should not be limiting our affections to the things on the earth.
1 John 2:15-17 also tells us that “the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” This passage encourages us to focus on the things that can’t be taken away, like God’s kingdom and our relationship with Him, over material things and cravings.
Substance Abuse
The Bible has a lot to say about substance abuse. Proverbs 23:31-32 reads, “Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.” This passage is a powerful reminder to abstain from alcohol, as it can lead to intoxication and addiction.
Proverbs 20:1 in The Bible states, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” This is another way to remind us that alcohol and other substances can rapidly turn us away from the Lord. Additionally, in 1 Corinthians 6:12, The Bible states, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” This passage serves as a warning to not give into temptation and to be aware of addictions.
Adverse Effects of Bad Habits
The Bible also has some powerful words of wisdom when it comes to the adverse effects of bad habits. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, The Bible states, “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” This serves as a warning against putting ourselves first and disregarding the consequences of our actions. It also encourages us to stay focused on the bigger picture, instead of getting entrenched in the rat race of life.
Similarly, Proverbs 14:12 tells us, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” This passage serves as an admonition to be careful of our decisions, as even the most seemingly innocuous choices often have adverse and long-term effects.
Lastly, Proverbs 16:25 states, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” This is a reiteration of the previous passage; the Bible is conveying the importance of making well-informed decisions, as seemingly small errors in judgment can have a profound impact on our future.
Focus on the Prize
Finally, The Bible talks about the importance of staying focused on the prize. In 1 Corinthians 9:24, The Bible states, “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.” This is a reminder to stay focused and disciplined, as the prize is worth the effort.
Romans 8:18 in The Bible states, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” This passage serves as a reminder to keep our eyes on the prize and to keep pushing forward, no matter how hard it may seem. It also encourages us to be patient and to trust in God’s plan for our lives.
In conclusion, The Bible has a great deal to say about watching bad things. By following its teachings, we can keep our eyes on the prize and remain focused on serving the Lord. It is important to stay focused on the things that can’t be taken away and to remain mindful of our interactions and decisions. We should abstain from any type of unwholesome influence, including the things that are seen and heard on television and online. Only then can we truly live a life of peace and joy.
