Music, Media, Television, Culture, Peers, Family, Church,
Past, Relationships
What do all of these things have in common? They are the
things that influence our lives, our personality, our money, our faith and
more. We are constantly ‘Under the Influence’. If we are not aware of these
influences and how they are affecting us, they can start to control us. They
can dominate us to a point that they begin to shape a new identity in us.
The last series of posts talked about desire. This next
series is based on the influences that fight for our desires everyday. God will
give us the desires of our heart, but culture will give us the desires of this
world. The more you let the small desires of this world influence you, the more
you become of the world. Don’t forget, we are to be in the world, but not of
the world. I know some things are unavoidable in this culture. If we, as Christians,
are to connect with the world, we have to put ourselves into the influences. We
have to be aware of the popular music, we have to know what media and society
are now saying is “ok” and we have to be alert to what the enemy is up to.
This, of course, leaves us wide open for temptation. But we have to be strong
and stand up to these forces. Amongst all of the worldly influences, we have to
allow Christ to influence us. We have to be intentional with our time, at all
times. Careful to not allow the influence of culture today suck us down with
it.
Let’s explore the ways we are all influenced.
So what are some ways you are influenced? Good or Bad?
Social Networking.
ReplyDeleteIt's great way to connect and communicate. But, it also has its disadvantages. The more time we spend trying to connect with people via Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, the less time we focus our attention where it matters - God.
Even though our intentions are good, Social Networking sites can be a distraction from our purpose; Living in accordance to God and HIS will.
This is something I am trying to improve right now. Finding balance. I've spent a lot of time on Twitter lately, connecting, encouraging, etc. All things that I know fit into my purpose and passion in life. I feel it's my calling.
However, as a result, I still feel at times I am not spending enough time with God. I pray often, but I don't think the relationship I want to have with Him is as strong as it could be.
In society, we are so reliant on technology and while it's great and provides an outlet, we need to be careful not to get sucked in and pulled in any direction that takes us away from God.
I really appreciate you posting this.
God bless,
- Julie (InciteFaith)
Great response and so true.
ReplyDeleteSocial networks are great to be a part of and promote the message. But we have to maintain our network with God. The more we can keep in line with God, the more blessed our own networking will be. Thanks for sharing.