What does the Bible say about watching bad things? This is a question that has intrigued many Christians over the years. The Bible, as a sacred text for millions, offers guidance on how believers should navigate the world and the media they consume. In this article, we will explore the teachings of the Bible regarding the act of watching bad things and how it affects the spiritual well-being of a Christian.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous life and being discerning in one’s choices. In the book of Philippians 4:8, it states, “Finally, brothers and sisters, 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.” This verse suggests that believers should focus on positive and uplifting content rather than dwelling on bad things.
One of the primary concerns regarding watching bad things is the potential for it to corrupt one’s spirit. The Bible teaches that the heart is the source of all actions and that evil thoughts can lead to sin. In Matthew 15:18-19, Jesus warns, “But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these defile you. For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.” By watching bad things, a Christian may be exposing themselves to corrupting influences that can lead to spiritual decay.
Furthermore, the Bible encourages believers to avoid the company of evil. In 1 Corinthians 15:33, it says, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’ Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God—I say this to your shame.” This verse implies that believers should be cautious about the company they keep and the content they consume, as it can have a significant impact on their character.
In addition to the spiritual consequences, watching bad things can also have negative effects on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. The Bible teaches that believers should seek joy and peace in their lives. In Romans 12:12, it says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” By constantly exposing oneself to negative content, a Christian may find it difficult to maintain a joyful and peaceful state of mind.
To sum up, the Bible offers several teachings on the subject of watching bad things. It encourages believers to focus on positive and uplifting content, avoid corrupting influences, and seek joy and peace in their lives. By adhering to these principles, Christians can maintain a strong spiritual foundation and avoid the negative consequences of watching bad things.
