How about we plumb some deep waters…depths you need to consider?
I am deeply concerned about a trend I see in society, but especially among Believers: We are losing our ability to think critically about important matters.
It alarms me that we passively swallow what the media—secular or religious—present without thoughtful scrutiny. For the media to “have a story” they must have conflict, sensation, or both. Absent these, they have no story and it is a “slow news day.”
Given competition in the media, it is critical that they report sensational stories. For example: The media talks daily about deaths by suicide bombings around the world. However, far more people die daily—seventy-one on average—in the USA due to alcohol-related accidents.Unless an event is sensational and laced with controversy you’re likely to hear another story, even a created one.
My point? There is no way for you to receive a fair and balanced report given these parameters. None. The media has an agenda: get you to listen to them versus their competitor. Therefore, you and I must consider their reports thoughtfully, not passively.
Why am I writing about this unspiritual topic when my normal letter to you offers spiritual perspectives?
Listening and thinking are spiritual. As a Believer,nothing in your life is unspiritual. You are spirit, God is spirit, the devil is spirit, the demons are spirit, the angels are spirit, your friends are spirit, etc. You are a spiritual person living in a spiritual realm that is filtered through the physical and visible (2 Cor. 4:18).
Scripture teaches that we appraise all things because we have the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:15-16). Further, in light of the fact that we live in a dangerous place—like sheep among wolves—Jesus exhorted that we are to be shrewd (Mt. 10:16).
When you watch and listen, do so actively, with acknowledged dependence upon the Holy Spirit for guidance and discernment. Recognize that you live in occupied territory. This world is not your home; you are simply passing through (2 Cor. 5:20).
I am not saying everything you hear on the news is anti-Christian. What I am saying is that your enemy, the devil, has an agenda larger than the war in Iraq, the President’s popularity, and the market report. He will “spin” society for you to his own advantage, either now or later, and he will do so relentlessly.
You must be wise. Nothing you receive from the media presents a balanced, fair treatment. Whether you listen to Christian radio or NPR, talk with your Father about what you have heard. Seek the considered opinions of those you respect. Study the Scripture. Then draw a conclusion. Be wise!
I leave in the morning for Bulgaria to minister to a group of influential men and women seeking to influence their country for Christ. My role is to guide their personal, spiritual growth and build bridges into their professional lives and political influence. However, the anti-American sentiment awaiting me is profound! So much so, that I begin my ministry with two strikes against me because I am an American!
We live in a spiritual world that is not at peace spiritually. It is filtered via the airwaves. We must be discerning and shrewd like serpents, just as Jesus counseled.
Bless you, my friend. I covet your prayers, and know that you have mine.
P.S. I talked to a dear friend in Eastern Europe this morning on the telephone about the emotional condition of his country. He said his country is the most pessimistic in Europe and one of the principle causes he sited was the detrimental role of their media. Be on the alert, but rest in your Father’s arms. Pray for those in Eastern Europe looking to us for spiritual guidance and encouragement.
