This week in our simplifying series I wanted to delve into the topic of entertainment. I want to make it clear from the start that this is definitely a liberty issue (2 Cor. 3:17). Each of us is responsible to pray and make wise decisions for our own families, and thus Aaron and I have sought to do in our household. We have freedom in Christ, but let us not use it as an opportunity for the flesh or as an excuse for doing evil, but rather to serve one another (Gal 5:13, 1 Pet. 2:16). Our standards may seem strict to some, but maybe we all should re-evaluate the long term impact that our choices of entertainment can have in the home.
You very well may observe in the modern American home the presence of a television in each room of the house for every family member to have ample opportunity to watch their own shows without the conflict of other opinions. You also may notice a significant absence in family gatherings around the dinner table to share at least one meal a day. Rather, everyone would prefer being in their own corner, entertaining themselves, or else absent from the home all together. I believe the increase in technology and entertainment pieces around our homes has made a significant impact on the degradation of the Biblical family structure…and where there is no family community and fellowship, we see the falling apart of families nationwide.
1 John 2:15-16 “Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world.”
What is the purpose of entertainment?
More often than not, entertainment is an idol in our nation. Just take a look at Hollywood. Millions of dollars a year are poured into making the most entertaining, dramatic, awe-inspiring films. Biblically speaking there is certainly room to relax and take time to rest, as the Word reminds us frequently of the importance of resting (Exodus 35:2). Entertainment should serve the purpose of resting in moderation, as this also can become an idol and lead to poverty (Prov. 6:10). It can also be used effectively in building the family, strengthening communication and relationships, as well as whether or not it is developing skills and knowledge.
But with every entertainment possibility we should prayerfully evaluate the following questions:
1. Is this entertainment choice serving a meaningful purpose? Is it a wise investment of our money, time or resources?
2. Is it building our family in some way (developing relationships, strengthening communication)? Or will this item tear our family down?
3. Is it helping to build skills or strengthen knowledge and learning that can be used for the glory of God?
In an effort to build our family, strengthening family relationships, and simplify the entertainment choices in our lives, in addition to choosing frugal options for entertainment, we have come to a few conclusions…