According to a study published in January, 2010, the average 8-to-18-year-old spends 10 hours and 45 minutes in front of a screen. Now, to be fair, some of that is multitasking. That is, they're listening to music and watching TV or working on their computer while watching a show. So the actual screen time is closer to 7 hours and 38 minutes ... a day. Much better, right? This is a vast number when you subtract meal time and sleep time. Unfortunately, adults aren't any better. Between working on computers at work and home time with computers, TV, and so on, they're just as likely to be in front of a screen as their children. So?
Let me first say as clearly as I can that the Internet, TV, DVDs, phones, gaming -- this stuff is not inherently sinful. That is, I am not suggesting or even thinking that it is a sin to watch TV (for instance). Some can be and some may not be. I'm not going there. It may seem like I am, but I needed to say up front that this is not the direction I'm headed. So pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.
So, having established that, I am now about to lay out some reasons that you might want to consider severely curtailing the amount of time you (believers) spend in front of a screen.
Physical Ramifications
According to studies, the medium of screen technology is harmful to young children. That's the medium, not the content. To the developing little brains, the flashing images and sound and the necessary singular focus causes developmental problems. Children exposed to television before the age of 3 face potential problems with language development, autism, and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Okay, so most (how's that for an understatement?) of my readers aren't under the age of 3. See? That first one was easy, right? Unless, of course, you're a parent of a little one. Then there's something in to think about.
Temptation
Paul seemed fond of writing in absolutes. He wrote to the church at Rome, "Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires" (Rom 13:14). Now, it doesn't take a genius to realize that "sex sells". So how long can you watch TV or a movie or cruise the Internet without being hit with an ad selling products with sex? It's no longer subtle. We've "progressed" to the point that women in underwear and children in sexy outfits is common place. There is little sense of propriety anymore. Just cruising along on Facebook or checking your email, in fact, can get you some pretty risque stuff to see. Paul said no provision. What part of "no" don't we understand?
Redeeming the Time
To me, this is really big. Well, not just me. Paul wrote, "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil" (Eph 5:15-16). Here's the question I need to ask (and it's not just you I'm asking; it's me): What else could you be doing in the hours you spend in front of the television, computer, etc.? What family activities are you missing? Is your personal entertainment time a higher priority than your time with God? With family? I read that the person you are now and the person you are in 10 years is the same, with the exception of the books you read. How about reading? Are you making the best use of your time by sitting in front of a screen? Hey, I didn't say it. It was Paul, under the inspiration of God. You decide.
Where Your Mind Is
Paul told the church at Colossae "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth" (Col 3:2). To the Philippians he wrote, "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" (Phil 4:8). We are commanded "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind" (Rom 12:2). How we think is of paramount importance. We are to "take every thought captive to obey Christ" ( 2 Cor 10:5). Thinking is important, and the content of most of what we have available on television, the Internet, your favorite video game, and so on does not fall in the categories of Philippians 4:8. So, where are you letting your mind dwell?
Now, as I said, I have not said that time in front of a screen is, by definition, sinful. I even think that there can be some value in carefully considered, well-measured, cautious time in front of a television for relaxation or a computer for, oh, I don't know, blogging, or the like. I am simply recommending two things. First, give it some thought. Perhaps a lot of thought. These are not minor or small issues. Examine the content. Think about where you're taking your mind, your temptations, your time. Second, see if you can limit your addiction. You know, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matt 6:21). I'd almost be willing to bet that you won't get to heaven and tell God, "Oh, I wish I'd spent more time in front of that TV!" Just a thought.
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