“Discover how to honor God in your entertainment choices! Learn Bible-based guidance (KJV), practical tips, and expert insights to transform your viewing habits. Protect your mind, strengthen your faith, and choose content that glorifies Christ. Click to learn the secrets to watching wisely and walking in holiness today!”
Understanding the Biblical Standard for What We Watch
1.1 Why Does What We Watch Matter to God?
In today’s digital age, screens dominate our lives. From television and cinema to YouTube and TikTok, what we see shapes what we believe and who we become. But as believers in Christ, we are called to a higher standard. Our choices in entertainment reflect the condition of our heart and the direction of our soul.
The Word of God (KJV) clearly sets the principle:
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
This verse leaves no room for compromise. Every action, every choice—even what we watch—must glorify God. If what we are consuming in media does not honor God, then it dishonors Him. There is no neutral ground.
1.2 The Call to Holiness in Entertainment
Holiness is not optional; it is a command:
“Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:16
This holiness extends beyond the church walls and into our daily decisions, including our media habits. When you select a movie, a series, or a video, ask: Does this content draw me closer to God or pull me away from Him?
Paul warns us:
“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” – Ephesians 5:11
Watching content that glorifies sin is fellowship with darkness. Instead, we are called to expose such works by refusing to participate.
1.3 The Eye: The Gateway to the Soul
Jesus gave a powerful teaching about the eyes:
“The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” – Matthew 6:22-23
Our eyes are the windows to our soul. What enters through the eye shapes our inner man. If you feed your eyes with impurity, violence, lust, and rebellion, darkness will fill your heart. But if you choose what is pure, noble, and Christ-centered, light will dwell in you.
1.4 Biblical Tests for God-Honoring Entertainment
Before pressing play, apply these four Biblical tests:
✅ (A) The Glory Test
- Does this glorify God?
- “Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
✅ (B) The Purity Test
- Does this align with Philippians 4:8?
“Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
If it doesn’t meet these qualities, it’s not worth your time.
✅ (C) The Influence Test
- Will this corrupt my thoughts and behavior?
“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
✅ (D) The Presence Test
- Would you watch this if Jesus was sitting next to you?
“Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” – Matthew 28:20
1.5 The Danger of Careless Watching
Every movie, series, or video carries a message—sometimes obvious, sometimes subtle. Satan uses media as a tool to normalize sin, glorify immorality, and mock righteousness.
The Bible warns:
“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:22
This means not only avoiding sinful acts but also staying away from content that portrays sin as normal or desirable. When we ignore this warning, we open the door to spiritual compromise.
1.6 Why Christians Must Be Different in Their Viewing Habits
Jesus said:
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” – Matthew 5:14
If we watch what the world watches, laugh at what they laugh at, and consume the same filth they do, how can we shine as light? Our choices must reflect our identity in Christ.
1.7 Practical Reflection for Believers
Ask yourself today:
- Do my entertainment choices please God?
- Do they make me more like Christ or more like the world?
- Can I stand before God and say, “I glorified You in what I watched”?
Your entertainment is not just leisure; it’s discipleship. What you watch will either draw you closer to heaven or lead you into compromise. Choose wisely.
A Deep Biblical Perspective on Choosing God-Honoring Entertainment
(What should I watch to honor God and follow His teachings?)
In the 21st century, entertainment is everywhere. Television, Netflix, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, gaming platforms, and movies dominate millions of lives every single day. For many, entertainment has become a way of escape, a comfort, or even an addiction. But for believers in Christ, this is a serious spiritual battlefield because what enters through our eyes and ears shapes our heart, thoughts, character, and destiny.
The question is:
What should I watch to honor God and follow His teachings?
The answer is not about a list of “allowed” or “forbidden” shows but about a heart attitude rooted in Scripture. The Bible gives us principles that apply in every age—even in our media-saturated generation.
1. Every Choice Must Glorify God
1 Corinthians 10:31 (KJV):
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
Paul’s words are clear: everything, including what we watch, should glorify God. Ask yourself:
- Can I glorify God while watching this?
- Would Jesus sit beside me and watch this without shame?
If the answer is no, then that content does not honor God.
2. Guarding the Eye Gate – The Door to Your Soul
Your eyes are not neutral. Jesus Himself said:
Matthew 6:22-23 (KJV):
“The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness.”
What enters your eyes enters your soul. Watching sinful or corrupt content does not stay on the screen—it enters your heart, shapes your desires, and weakens your spirit. Many believers wonder why they struggle with lust, anger, fear, or depression while binge-watching shows filled with sexual immorality, violence, and profanity. The answer is simple: garbage in, garbage out.
Proverbs 4:23 (KJV):
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”
To keep your heart, you must guard what enters through your eyes and ears.
3. The Filter of Philippians 4:8
When choosing what to watch, apply the test of Philippians 4:8 (KJV):
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Now ask:
- Is this show pure?
- Does it promote virtue or sin?
- Is it lovely or filled with darkness?
If it does not pass this biblical test, turn it off.
4. Separation from Worldliness
The Bible repeatedly commands separation from the world’s sinful systems:
2 Corinthians 6:17 (KJV):
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.”
If entertainment promotes sin, rebellion, witchcraft, or immorality, we cannot consume it without grieving the Holy Spirit. Watching such content not only weakens our faith but also damages our testimony before others.
James 4:4 (KJV):
“Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”
Entertainment is not neutral—it’s either pulling you toward God or pushing you away.
5. What Does God-Honoring Entertainment Look Like?
Instead of filling your mind with darkness, choose content that glorifies God:
- Bible-based movies and series like The Chosen, Jesus of Nazareth, or animated Bible stories for children.
- Christian testimonies and sermons that strengthen your faith.
- Educational documentaries that reflect truth and virtue.
- Wholesome family films that teach love, kindness, and honesty.
6. The Eternal Perspective
Every second you spend watching something is an investment in your soul. Will this investment bring eternal reward—or eternal regret? Jesus said in Matthew 12:36 (KJV):
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”
If we will give account for every idle word, imagine how much more for hours of sinful entertainment. The Day of Judgment is real, and we must live in light of eternity.
Practical Tip:
If you cannot watch a movie or series while praying, “Lord, I do this for Your glory,” don’t watch it.
If Jesus walked into your room right now, would you feel ashamed or at peace about what is on your screen?
Honor God in what you watch! Discover Bible-based guidance, practical tips, and ways to choose content that strengthens faith and glorifies Christ.”
Practical Steps for Choosing Entertainment That Honors God
We live in an age where content is limitless. From streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube to social media reels on Instagram and TikTok, our eyes and ears are constantly bombarded with images and sounds that shape our hearts and minds. As followers of Christ, we are called to “walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16) and not conform to the world (Romans 12:2). But how do we practically choose what to watch so that it aligns with God’s Word?
This section provides seven powerful, practical steps, rooted in the KJV Bible, to guide every believer in making God-honoring entertainment choices.
1. Begin Every Choice with Prayer
James 1:5 (KJV):
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Before clicking “play,” pause and pray:
“Lord, does this content honor You? Will it build my faith or weaken it?”
God promises wisdom when we ask. Entertainment is never neutral; it either draws us closer to God or pulls us away. If you feel uneasy or convicted, that’s the Holy Spirit guiding you. Obey Him.
2. Apply the Philippians 4:8 Test Before Watching
Philippians 4:8 (KJV):
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Before watching any movie, series, or video, measure it against this biblical filter:
- Is it true or based on lies and deception?
- Is it pure or filled with immorality?
- Does it promote virtue or glorify sin?
- Will this strengthen my thought life or corrupt it?
If the answer fails in any area, turn it off—because obedience is better than entertainment.
3. Know the Dangers of Compromise
The enemy uses media as a tool of spiritual warfare. Shows filled with sexual immorality, occultism, profanity, and violence desensitize the heart. Slowly, what once shocked us becomes normal. This is how the devil works:
- First, he entertains you.
- Then, he influences you.
- Finally, he controls your desires.
The Bible warns:
1 Corinthians 15:33 (KJV):
“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
Evil entertainment corrupts holy living. You cannot fill your mind with sin and expect to live a righteous life.
4. Create a God-Centered Entertainment List
Instead of aimlessly scrolling, plan what you watch with intention. Make a personal list of God-honoring content such as:
- Biblical movies and documentaries (The Chosen, Patterns of Evidence, Jesus of Nazareth).
- Christian music concerts and worship sessions that lift your spirit.
- Educational, inspirational, and family-friendly films that align with Christian values.
This helps you avoid the trap of random suggestions and worldly algorithms that push ungodly content.
5. Set Clear Boundaries for Screen Time
Even good content can become an idol if it consumes all your time. Ephesians 5:16 (KJV):
“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Ask yourself:
- How much time do I spend watching vs. reading the Bible?
- Does this habit rob me of prayer and fellowship with God?
Set boundaries like:
✅ No binge-watching.
✅ No late-night movies that rob you of morning prayer.
✅ Prioritize God’s Word first, then entertainment.
6. Involve Your Family in Godly Choices
If you have children, remember: what you watch shapes their faith. Don’t expose them to shows that normalize sin or mock God. Teach them why purity matters and guide them toward wholesome family content.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (KJV):
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children…”
When you choose Christ-centered entertainment, you’re not only protecting your soul—you’re discipling your family.
7. Remember the Eternal Perspective
One day, we will stand before Christ to give an account of how we lived—including what we allowed into our minds. Matthew 12:36 (KJV):
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”
If every word matters, every hour of entertainment matters too. Ask yourself: Will this choice echo in eternity?
Key Practical Test:
Before watching anything, say:
“Lord, I do this for Your glory.”
If you cannot pray that with honesty, don’t watch it.
Historical Insight:
Early Christians refused to attend Roman theaters because those shows glorified immorality and idolatry. They understood that what entertains the flesh can destroy the soul. Today, the modern screen is our theater. Will we follow their example of holiness—or compromise for comfort?
Real-Life Scenarios & Biblical Solutions for Choosing God-Honoring Entertainment
Modern entertainment is not just what we watch—it is a battlefield for the soul. We are constantly influenced by movies, TV shows, YouTube videos, social media reels, and streaming platforms like Netflix or Prime Video. Every click is a choice between light and darkness, holiness and compromise.
In this section, we will look at real-life scenarios Christians face daily, evaluate them through the Word of God (KJV), and provide practical solutions so that you can honor God in every choice.
Scenario 1: Watching Movies with Explicit Content
Imagine you’re scrolling Netflix and see a trending series with nudity, profanity, and occult themes. Everyone at work or school is talking about it, and you feel pressured to watch it.
Biblical Warning:
Ephesians 5:11 (KJV):
“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”
When you watch what God calls sin, you are not just being entertained—you are partnering with darkness.
✅ Solution:
- Reject the pressure to fit in. You are called to be set apart (Romans 12:2).
- Replace it with Christian films or clean historical documentaries that inspire godliness.
Example Alternatives:
- The Chosen (Life of Jesus)
- Fireproof (Christian marriage story)
- Courageous (Faith-filled family drama)
Scenario 2: Social Media Reels & TikTok Temptations
You open Instagram or TikTok for “just 5 minutes,” but suddenly you’re scrolling through sensual videos, profane jokes, and worldly trends. Hours are gone, and your mind feels polluted.
Biblical Warning:
Psalm 101:3 (KJV):
“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.”
Social media algorithms study your habits and feed you content that satisfies the flesh.
✅ Solution:
- Unfollow ungodly pages immediately.
- Follow Christian creators, Bible pages, and worship accounts instead.
- Use apps like YouVersion or Christian podcasts to replace sinful scrolling with spiritual growth.
Scenario 3: Children Watching Cartoons with Hidden Messages
Many parents think cartoons are harmless, but modern kids’ shows often promote witchcraft, gender confusion, and rebellion.
Biblical Principle:
Proverbs 22:6 (KJV):
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
✅ Solution:
- Preview every show before your children watch.
- Recommend faith-based alternatives:
- Superbook
- VeggieTales
- Owlegories
- Watch together and discuss biblical lessons from the story.
Scenario 4: Friends Invite You for a Horror Movie Night
You know the movie is filled with demons and occult practices, but you don’t want to offend your friends.
Biblical Warning:
2 Corinthians 6:17 (KJV):
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.”
Horror movies glorify fear, death, and evil spirits—which is the opposite of God’s Spirit of peace.
✅ Solution:
- Politely refuse and explain your faith-based conviction.
- Suggest a clean, uplifting movie night instead.
- Remember: True friends respect your values.
Scenario 5: Choosing Music Videos and Concerts
Many believers watch music videos filled with sensual dancing, profanity, and worldly lifestyles. Music is not neutral—it shapes your heart and feeds your spirit.
Biblical Truth:
Colossians 3:16 (KJV):
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
✅ Solution:
- Fill your playlist with worship music and Christ-centered songs.
- Attend Christian concerts or livestream worship sessions instead of secular ones.
- Sing along, making melody in your heart to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19).
Practical Table: Compare & Choose Wisely
| Worldly Entertainment | God-Honoring Alternative |
|---|---|
| Horror Movies | Christian Inspirational Films |
| TikTok Dance Trends | Scripture-Based Devotionals |
| Secular Music Videos | Worship Songs & Hymns |
| Cartoons with Witchcraft Themes | Bible-Based Animated Series |
| Profane Comedy Shows | Clean Humor & Christian Podcasts |
Key Reminder from KJV Scripture:
Romans 13:14 (KJV):
“But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.”
Every time you click play, you make a spiritual decision. Are you feeding your spirit—or your flesh?
The Spiritual Consequences of Watching Ungodly Content (Eternal Perspective)
Entertainment is not just fun—it is a form of discipleship. Every show, movie, or video you consume teaches you something. Either it draws you closer to Christ or closer to the world. There is no neutral ground.
1. Your Eyes Are the Gateway to Your Soul
Matthew 6:22-23 (KJV):
“The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness.”
What you watch enters your soul. If your eyes feed on darkness—violence, lust, profanity—your spirit becomes dark. If your eyes feed on light—truth, purity, holiness—your soul shines with righteousness.
2. Sin Starts with What You See
The first temptation in the Bible happened because Eve saw the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:6).
“And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food… she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat.”
Before sin happens, it begins in the mind. Modern media knows this. That’s why they use visual seduction—advertisements, sensual music videos, immoral scenes—to plant sinful desires in your heart.
Practical Truth:
- Watching pornography or sensual content creates lust (Matthew 5:28).
- Watching violent shows creates anger and desensitization.
- Watching occult movies opens doors to demonic influence (Deuteronomy 18:10-12).
3. Entertainment Shapes Your Character
1 Corinthians 15:33 (KJV):
“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
If you constantly watch ungodly content, you become comfortable with sin. Slowly, you stop feeling convicted. What once shocked you now feels normal. This is called spiritual numbness—a dangerous state where you no longer sense the Holy Spirit’s warning.
Example:
- A believer starts by watching romantic comedies.
- Then moves to shows with light nudity.
- Then to explicit movies.
- Finally, addiction develops.
This is how Satan works—step by step.
4. Grieving the Holy Spirit
Ephesians 4:30 (KJV):
“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”
When you watch something that offends God, the Holy Spirit inside you feels pain. His voice becomes softer the more you ignore Him. Over time, your spiritual sensitivity dies.
5. Eternal Impact – Will This Matter on Judgment Day?
Romans 14:12 (KJV):
“So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”
Ask yourself:
- Can I watch this movie sitting next to Jesus?
- Will I be proud of this playlist on Judgment Day?
Your entertainment choices reveal your heart. A holy life cannot be built on unholy content.
Practical Tips to Break Free from Ungodly Entertainment
✅ Step 1: Repent and Renounce
Confess every sinful habit. Ask God to cleanse your mind.
Psalm 51:10 (KJV):
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.”
✅ Step 2: Replace, Don’t Just Remove
Don’t just stop watching bad content—replace it with godly content.
- Christian movies (The Chosen, War Room, Courageous)
- Sermons & Bible Studies (YouTube: David Jeremiah, John Piper, Paul Washer)
- Worship music playlists
✅ Step 3: Use Accountability & Filters
Install apps like Covenant Eyes or Accountable2You to block explicit content.
✅ Step 4: Renew Your Mind Daily
Romans 12:2 (KJV):
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Read the Bible daily to reprogram your thoughts.
Warning from Jonathan Edwards:
“The mind will of necessity be occupied with something; if it be not filled with God, it will be filled with the world.”
This means if we don’t intentionally choose holy entertainment, worldly poison will fill the gap.
Your entertainment choices can either lead you closer to Heaven or drag you toward Hell. The question is: Who do you want to please—God or the world?
Embracing Discernment and Spiritual Sensitivity in Entertainment Choices
(Rooted in KJV Scriptures and Deep Practical Application)
When it comes to the question, “What should I watch to honor God and follow His teachings?”, we cannot ignore one of the most important virtues a believer must possess: Discernment. In a world where countless shows, movies, and digital content are available at the touch of a button, the Christian life calls for an unwavering commitment to holiness and wisdom in every choice—including what we watch.
1. The Biblical Mandate for Discernment
The Bible commands us to be vigilant and discerning in every aspect of life:
“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil.”
(1 Thessalonians 5:21–22, KJV)
This verse provides a two-fold instruction:
✅ Examine everything carefully.
✅ Reject anything that even appears evil.
In terms of entertainment, this means asking:
- Does this content align with God’s truth?
- Does it glorify sin or normalize wickedness?
- Will it bring me closer to God or distance me from Him?
If the answer leans toward sin or spiritual compromise, the believer should abstain completely. There is no room for “a little bit of evil” because even a small compromise can corrupt the mind:
“Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” (1 Corinthians 15:33, KJV)
2. The Battle for the Mind
Entertainment is not neutral. Every visual image, every storyline, every character either feeds your spirit with righteousness or poisons your soul with ungodliness. Paul writes:
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2, KJV)
When we spend hours watching shows filled with lust, violence, profanity, mockery of God, and occult practices, we are sowing seeds of corruption in our hearts. It becomes impossible to honor God while filling our mind with what He hates. Instead, Scripture calls us to focus on that which is pure:
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8, KJV)
This verse should be the filter through which every believer evaluates movies, series, or online videos. If the content cannot pass the Philippians 4:8 test, then it does not belong in the life of a child of God.
3. The Principle of Separation
The Bible repeatedly warns believers about worldliness and unequal fellowship with darkness:
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” (2 Corinthians 6:17, KJV)
Many forms of entertainment are designed to desensitize Christians to sin—through sexual immorality, mockery of righteousness, promotion of rebellion, and witchcraft in popular culture. The devil uses these subtle tools to normalize evil and condition believers to accept what God rejects. This is why separation is not legalism; it is obedience to God’s command for holiness.
“Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16, KJV)
4. Developing Spiritual Sensitivity
Discernment is not just intellectual; it is spiritual. To develop this sensitivity, a believer must:
✅ Abide in the Word daily (Psalm 119:11)
✅ Pray for wisdom and understanding (James 1:5)
✅ Listen to the conviction of the Holy Spirit (John 16:13)
When you are about to watch something, pause and pray:
“Lord, does this honor You? Would You sit with me and watch this?”
If the Holy Spirit gives you an uneasy feeling, that is your answer. Obey immediately, because delayed obedience is disobedience.
5. Practical Guidelines for God-Honoring Entertainment
- ✅ Choose faith-based films and documentaries that strengthen your walk with Christ.
- ✅ Select educational and wholesome programs that promote virtue, honesty, and respect.
- ✅ Use parental controls and content filters to guard against inappropriate material.
- ✅ Set time limits to avoid entertainment becoming an idol.
- ✅ Regularly review your choices in light of Scripture.
Instead of indulging in content that glorifies sin, fill your mind with sermons, Christian movies, and Bible-based teachings. There are numerous platforms offering pure, Christ-centered content, and these should become your primary source of visual entertainment.
6. The Eternal Perspective
The things you watch today shape your eternity. Jesus warned:
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” (Matthew 12:36, KJV)
If we must give an account for every idle word, how much more for the hours spent indulging in unholy entertainment? Ask yourself:
“When I stand before Christ, will I be ashamed of what I watched?”
Beloved, life is short, and eternity is forever. Do not waste precious time feeding your soul with what will burn in judgment. Instead, watch only what draws you closer to Jesus, deepens your love for His Word, and strengthens your resolve to live holy in an unholy world.
Final Conclusion – Walking in Discernment, Honor, and Holiness
The Eternal Call to Choose Wisely
Beloved, life is a fleeting gift, and every moment we spend is an investment in eternity. The choices we make about what we watch, listen to, or entertain in our hearts carry spiritual weight. As the Apostle Paul exhorts:
“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.” (Colossians 3:17, KJV)
Watching entertainment is not a trivial matter; it is a spiritual decision that either draws us nearer to God or distances us from Him. The Scriptures consistently remind us that our hearts are the battlefield:
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23, KJV)
The Practical Application of God-Honoring Choices
- Assess Every Choice Spiritually
Before opening a video, streaming a series, or scrolling social media, pause and ask:
- Does this content glorify God?
- Will it strengthen my faith, my family, or my community?
- Does it promote purity, truth, and righteousness?
- Replace the Worldly with the Godly
Fill your leisure hours with Christian films, worship music, Bible studies, and sermons. Just as Paul admonishes:
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true… think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8, KJV) - Guard Your Mind and Heart
The world seeks to distract, deceive, and defile. Use practical filters, parental controls, and accountability partners to protect yourself and your family. Be vigilant, as Scripture warns:
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8, KJV) - Discernment Through Prayer
Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate your choices. Discernment grows not only through knowledge but through intimacy with God. Pray daily:
“Lord, guide my eyes, my ears, and my mind. Show me what honors You and repels what grieves You.”
Great Christian Scholars on Media and Holiness
- Charles Spurgeon said:
“Guard your eyes, for they are the windows of your soul. What enters here determines your eternity.” - A.W. Tozer warned:
“What you watch today shapes what you worship tomorrow. God is jealous for your heart.” - Jonathan Edwards noted:
“The mind cannot be empty; if it is not filled with God, it will inevitably be filled with the world.”
These timeless truths remind us that entertainment is never neutral. Every choice shapes character, heart, and destiny.
FAQ – Common Questions
Q1: Can I ever watch mainstream movies?
A1: Only if they glorify God, teach moral lessons, or are free of sin glorification. Always evaluate using Philippians 4:8 as your standard.
Q2: What about news or historical content with violent themes?
A2: Observe context. If the content informs, educates, or inspires righteousness, it can be watched cautiously. Avoid content that sensationalizes sin.
Q3: How do I handle peer pressure to watch inappropriate content?
A3: Stand firm in Scripture. Explain your convictions gently, or respectfully decline. True friends honor your commitment to God.
- What current shows or content challenge my spiritual growth?
- How can I transform my entertainment habits into opportunities to honor God?
- What steps can my family or church community take to protect younger members from harmful media?
Beloved, now is the time to act. Examine your playlists, your streaming habits, and your social media use. Replace worldly entertainment with God-honoring content. Let your eyes, ears, and heart dwell on things that build faith, strengthen character, and honor Christ. Share this message with friends and family so that they too can choose holiness in their entertainment.
Salvation
If you feel convicted today, remember that God’s grace is always sufficient. He can cleanse your heart, renew your mind, and give you the strength to choose righteousness:
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10, KJV)
Beloved, may you walk in discernment, wisdom, and holiness, honoring God in all that you watch, listen to, and dwell upon. May your life reflect the glory of Christ, and may every choice today point toward eternal reward. Amen.