IT ALL STARTS OUT SO INNOCENTLY

• An intriguing plot

• A hilariously funny comedy

• A human interest story

So you settle back after a demanding day to take in a delicious experience in entertainment.

And then, almost imperceptibly, the off-color jokes emerge, seductive dress appears; ques-

tionable comments begin sprinkling the dialogue. Four-letter words surface. Traditional or

Biblical values are preempted, ignored, or mocked.

But you’re into the story now, and so you rationalize:

• “The plot is so good… ”

• “I’ve got to find out what happens… ”

• “It’s only a small part of the movie… just one or two brief scenes… ”

As one whose life bears the stamp of Christ, how should you handle these situations?

Certainly in our battle for spiritual integrity we must consider such truths as:

“I will set no worthless thing before my eyes.” (Psalm 101:3a)

“The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.” (I

John 2:6)

We are compelled to ask, “Is this something in which Jesus would engage?”

So… if you tend to waffle when it comes to maintaining Biblical standards in the area of

entertainment, why not carefully consider Philippians 4:8 and decide now just where you

plan to draw the line the next time you are drawn into a compromising situation

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,

whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians

4:8)

The person who has determined to apply Biblically-based values to entertainment, should

be prepared to incur the wrath or rejection of friends… especially from some who are profess-

ing Christians.