Monday, January 6, 2025

Guard what you view

 I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; It shall not cling to me. ~ Psalms 101:3

There was a time in my life when I didn’t realize how deeply the things I looked at affected my soul. I wandered into places I shouldn’t have been and allowed myself to see things I should never have been near. I watched shows that poisoned my spirit, and I didn’t understand why those images replayed in my mind for hours, even days afterward. They left an tangible mark on my thoughts and emotions, disrupting my peace.

But I’ve come a long way since then. Now, I am much more intentional and selective about what I allow into my life through my eyes. I am diligent in guarding against exposure to evil and harmful sights whenever possible. In today’s world, the challenge is astronomical. Through media, entertainment, and technology, we are constantly bombarded with every imaginable and even unimaginable image. Even a quick glance at the news can expose us to deeply disturbing pictures. So, how can we protect ourselves in such an environment?

The answer is in Psalm 101:3. David, the writer of this Psalm, made a solemn vow to set nothing wicked before his eyes. He chose, as much as was within his power, to guard against looking at evil things. If David, in his time, felt the need to take such a stand, how much more do we need to do so today?

Here are some practical ways you can begin to guard you heart and mind from taking evil in through your eyes:

• Evaluate Your Media Consumption: Take an inventory of the shows, movies, websites, and social media you consume. Are they uplifting and wholesome, or do they contain content that undermines your values and disturbs your peace?
• Set Boundaries: Use parental controls, filters, and accountability software to block access to harmful content. Be intentional about choosing media that aligns with your faith and values.
• Replace, Don’t Just Remove: If you decide to stop watching or taking in harmful content, replace it with something beneficial. Read inspiring books, listen to uplifting music or podcasts, and take on hobbies that nurture your soul.
• Be Mindful of Your Environment: Avoid places and situations where you might encounter visual temptations. When faced with unavoidable disturbing sights, practice redirecting your thoughts to something pure and positive or simply look away.
• Incorporate Scripture and Prayer: Meditate on verses like Psalm 101:3 to strengthen your decision. Ask God for wisdom and protection in guarding your eyes and heart.

You can start to take steps today to begin to shift your gaze in a new direction. The First thing to do is pray for discernment. Begin each day with a prayer asking God to help you recognize and avoid harmful visuals. Pray for the strength to stay committed to this path.

Next, find a friend or loved one to stay accountable to. Share your goal with a trusted friend or mentor who can encourage you and hold you to your commitment. Then, create a plan. Write down specific steps to eliminate or minimize exposure to harmful content in your daily routine.

Lastly, take time to regularly think about and evaluate your progress and adjust your boundaries as needed. Consider how these changes are impacting your peace of mind and spiritual growth and even your sleep.

Today I want to encourage you to remember the choices you make today shape the condition of your heart tomorrow. Guarding your view is not about legalism or fear but about cultivating a pure heart and mind. God’s Word equips you with the wisdom and strength you need for this journey. Be encouraged that you’re not alone in this endeavor. Trust that as you honor God with your eyes, He will honor you with His peace. Stay vigilant, stay faithful, and above all, guard what you view.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 101

 1 I will sing of mercy and justice; To You, O Lord, I will sing praises.

2 I will behave wisely in a perfect way. Oh, when will You come to me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.

3 I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; It shall not cling to me.

4 A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will not know wickedness.

5 Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor, him I will destroy; The one who has a haughty look and a proud heart, him I will not endure.

6 My eyes shall be on the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in a perfect way, he shall serve me.

7 He who works deceit shall not dwell within my house; He who tells lies shall not continue in my presence.

8 Early I will destroy all the wicked of the land, that I may cut off all the evildoers from the city of the Lord.