On Guard! Conquering Media Exploitation

Attention!

A pastor’s wife lamented, “I knew I had to stop watching soap operas when I found myself praying for the outcome!” Media is powerful and the explosion of media options has created a whole new battleground for families. They must be on guard against media that endorses and promotes empty, negative, and inappropriate (can we say sinful?) values in the name of entertainment.

Draw Swords!

Exploitation in the media is any use of creative and informative capabilities that would entice victims into a world of darkness and heartache. Common media methods can include

• computers/cell phones
• games
• literature
• movies
• music
• television

Christian families are not exempt, but they can “draw swords” and battle the culture in defense of both their own members and others who need protection. Even in this battle, we can understand our weapons are “not the weapons of the world,” but ours “have divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Cor. 10:4).

Our weapons?

Truth—God’s Word contradicts the culture. We must know and promote His standards of right living and thinking. His Word cautions us: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world” (Rom. 12:2).

Resources—Web sites are available for equipping believers to recognize and resist media exploitation. Here are a few:
1. www.FocusOnTheFamily.com
2. www.afa.net
3. www.cpyu.org (Center for Parent/Youth understanding)

Support—The Body of Christ is intended to provide strength to its warriors and aid to its wounded.

Prayer—The source of strength, wisdom, and help for all on the frontlines of culture battles is the One who does battle for us and with us. Seek Him always.

Charge!

As the old hymn calls out, “Onward, Christian Soldiers,” we must determine to protect our families, as well as boldly and lovingly penetrating our world with the Christian worldview. Consider the contrasts on these issues.

Clothing—The world says, “Anything goes. Show it all.” God’s Word calls for us to dress modestly (1 Tim. 2:9) and not cause others to sin by tempting their flesh (Matt. 5:28).

Morality—The world says, “Enjoy whatever feels good and makes you happy. And be tolerant of all choices.” God’s Word says we are not our own and we are to glorify God with our bodies (1 Cor. 6:20). His boundaries are for our protection.

Mind monitoring—The world says, “Fill your mind with visions of violence, obscenity, and immorality. Saturate your soul with the Enemy’s lies. No harm done.” God’s Word says we are to take our thoughts captive (2 Cor. 10:5) and our words and thoughts should please God (Psalm 19:14).

Conquer!

The good news about this war is God wins! While we must be alert, discerning, and committed to conquering any media exploitation, we have the tools. Only believers can truly enjoy life and all of God’s goodness. We walk in the Light.

• We fill our lives with healthy and fun alternatives.
• We learn to spot the lies.
• We take back ground the Enemy has pilfered.

Urging you onward, Christian soldier.

Lettie Kirkpatrick Burress battles media exploitation with both her speaking and her writing. Visit her Web site at www.writingforhim.com.