Thinking Out Loud

Dear Reader,

Okay, this is a big moment.  I don't think I've been this self-revelatory...ever.  Let's see how this goes.

Recently, I've started having discussions with folks about discipline.  These discussions have encompassed personal disciple, and how, when I become a parent, how much television my children will watch.  I have friends who don't watch television outside of renting the occasional DVD, and then some have the television on consistently.  Neither way is bad.  I'm just thinking about these things now.

To open myself up a bit, I have battled an addiction to the television (yes, television) my whole life. It's been the fact that I have felt compelled to have it on "for noise" or, in my teenage years, I would have to flip through every station, "just to insure nothing was on that I wanted to watch." It is definitely something that I struggle with.  Not just the fact that it's on, but then you wonder into programs that do not line up with Philippians 4:8.  Whatever the program, it's not edifying--either too violent, too sexually suggestive, or too stupid.  And, being reminded of the command in  Proverbs 4:23, I need to hold fast to my purity, not just physically, but mentally, and emotionally.

So, what's a guy to do?  Well, I am learning to cling to Psalm 37:5.  I love this verse.  It's a challenge in that commitment takes intent.  It is definitely an action verse.  Lay it at God's feet, trust in him, and he will act. Second, I'm going to begin journaling my television viewing habits.  I want to be faithful to log what I watch, when I watch, and the length of time I watch the program.  This is going to be interesting.

Will you pray with me and for me about this?  As always, Dear Reader, feel free to comment.  Encouragement, admonishment, or beseeching will be welcomed.