You Are What You Consume
When I was in the sixth grade, a new book series for children was released. It quickly became the talk of the school, with even the teachers raving about them. My sisters and I were always excited to read a good mystery or thriller, so we couldn't wait to get our hands on these books.
However, to our disappointment, the Christian community strongly opposed the series. Our parents advised us to stay away from them, and we did, but we never fully understood why.
It wasn’t until I became an adult that I began to better understand.
Years later, my husband and I visited a multicultural church during an out-of-town trip. As we had our infant daughter with us, I spent most of the service in the annex.
During this time, the Sunday school had just ended, and the children were released from their classrooms. I noticed a group of boys playing and interacting with each other, just like most kids do. However, one of the boys immediately caught my attention. As someone with a medical background, I was curious.
This boy appeared hesitant and avoided being around the group as if he was afraid. He also seemed to have difficulty placing one foot in front of the other, although he didn't have any obvious physical impairments. He had both of his arms wrapped around his chest and was tightly holding onto something.
Upon closer inspection, I realized that it was that book that I was forbidden to read during my childhood. I must emphasize that these are just my observations and interpretations; however, deep down, I was convinced that it had something to do with it.
When it comes to our physical health, we like to use the phrase “You are what you eat.” To maintain physical health and fitness, we carefully consider every food item before we eat it.
Likewise, our spiritual well-being is directly related to what we mentally consume. It shapes who we are.
Upon instructing his disciples, Jesus said
The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life. (John 6:63 NIV)
God's words carry his spirit and life. When we mentally consume them, we become full of the spirit and full of life. But that also means there are words out there that carry death and the spirit of fear. The closer you are to God, the easier it is to recognize them. My husband and I have cancelled shows due to objectionable content we started picking up on.
We should be very selective about the material we allow to enter our minds.
Supporting Text
Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. (Ac. 19:19)
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