LeMonique

There was a research done where the guests who attended a FamilyLife Conference, where asked to share what societal problem posed the greatest threat to their families. Was it alcohol and drug addiction? Materialism? Pornography? The breakup of families?
Nearly 36 percent answered: Television.

Surprised? After all, surveys show that the average adult watches TV 30 hours a week. And preschoolers are watching the "plug-in drug" an average of 27 hours per week. That's what we should expect from a society that boasts of more homes with TVs.

Christian families rightly consider TV to be a threat to the family for three primary reasons:

First, TV replaces real relationships. Communication ceases when the TV is turned on. Who can compete with such a vast menu of images, ANG. 1000.000 commercials and programs that parade slinky, sexy bodies in front of us?

Second, TV often undermines the commitments and moral integrity that bind a family together. "Sanford and Son" has been replaced with adultery, premarital sex and perverted behavior.

Third, TV robs families of both quality and quantity time.

After attending a Marriage Conference, one dad went home, unplugged the TV and lugged it to the garage. In its place he hung a picture of the family. Their five-year-old son sat down on the floor, stared at the portrait, looked up at his dad and asked, "Does this mean we're going to become a family now?"

Discuss: How many hours of television (or movies on video) do you think you watch each week? Your spouse? Your children? Keep track of your viewing habits for seven days, then evaluate television's grip on you and your most important relationships.

Pray: Ask God for discernment. Then make some choices that reflect your Christian beliefs.