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Little Fox - Negative Media Influences
2 Thessalonians 2:15
“So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings[a] we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.”
Now, more than ever, families need to guard and be watchful against media portrayals that seek to destroy scriptural family values by teaching values contrary to the word of God. This is why the scriptures guide us to actively engage in a process of discernment and cognitive control. The directive is clear: “...to demolish arguments and pretensions that stand opposed to the knowledge of God and to take captive every thought, aligning them with the obedience to Christ”. (2 Cor. 10:5)
Building on the teachings of scripture, we are reminded of the necessity to scrutinize everything against the Word of God. This includes exercising discernment to sift through information, ensuring that it aligns with the standards provided in His word. The power and ability to keep our minds anchored in Him is emphasized as a gift of discernment which helps us to know truth from falsehood.
However, it is acknowledged that external influences, particularly negative media portrayals, can be tools exploited by Satan to destroy the moral fabric of the family unit. This manipulation aims to shape perceptions and values that deviate from the instructions of the Lord found in His word. Media content that downplays or ridicules traditional Christian family values, such as monogamy, strong marital bonds, Christian parenting and moral virtue has the propensity to influence family members thereby causing disharmony which can lead to strife.
In light of these potential pitfalls, the counsel from Paul serves as a crucial reminder. His warning is explicit: Do not conform to the patterns of this world. Instead, submit yourself to the word of God which will ultimately renew your mind. (Romans 12:2) This renewal is not a passive act but an intentional one, involving a testing process to discern the will of God, what is good, acceptable, and perfect. It is a call to actively engage with our thoughts, beliefs, and the influences around us, ensuring that they align with the divine standards outlined in the scriptures. By doing so, we guard ourselves against the insidious effects of external influences that may lead us away from God's truth and disrupt the harmony within our families.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we lift our hearts to you, recognizing the challenges posed by negative media influences in our lives. Protect our minds, Lord, from the harmful portrayals and values that go against your instructions. Grant us discernment to sift everything under the light of your Word. Shield our families from the divisive teachings and wrong influences that may infiltrate through the media. Help us, Heavenly Father, to be transformed by the renewal of our minds, discerning what is good and acceptable in your sight. May your truth guide our perceptions, and may we remain steadfast in your word amidst the ever-present influences of the world. In
Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
By Pastor Dee