Practical Television Advice
Posted by Michael K. | Filed under Pop Culture
This is a tough one for me, cause I love TV. Alot. Nevertheless, here’s some great, thought-provoking suggestions from Randy Alcorn. You do not have to agree with all of it to benefit from his advice. Here are his points (but click through to read his reasons):
- Keep track of how much time you spend watching.
- Decide in advance how much TV to watch per week.
- Use a schedule to choose programs for the week–then stick to your choices.
- Keep your television unplugged, store it in a closet, and/or put it in a remote part of the house (prevents mindless flip-on).
- Periodically “fast” from television for a week or a month. Notice the “cold turkey” effects. (Avoids addiction, reminds you of all that can be done when TV off).
- Choose programs that uplift rather than undermine biblical values.
- Use the “off” switch freely. If it’s wrong and you keep watching, you’re saying “I approve.” (Unless it doesn’t present temptation and you’re critically analyzing it).
- Use the channel changer frequently.
- Watch and discuss programs together as a family–to avoid passivity and develop active moral discernment through interaction. (Avoid the second TV set that splits the family and leaves children unsupervised).
- Don’t allow young children to choose their own programs–that’s the parent’s responsibility.
- Don’t use television as a baby sitter.
- Spend an hour reading Scripture, a Christian book or magazine, or doing a ministry for each hour you watch TV.
- Consider dropping cable, Showtime, HBO, or any other service that you determine is importing ungodliness or temptation into your home.
- If you find you can’t control it–or you’re tired of the battle–get rid of your television.
August 31st, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Our tree-hugging parents made us “fast” from tv for a month once. We also weren’t allowed to watch tv during the school week (Sunday nights we could watch 60 minutes with them), my mother even threatened turning off power completely once after we lost it for 2 weeks due to a Maine ice storm largely because she was so excited to not hear any forms of media.
I also was just wondering if you were going to post your thoughts on the Tornado in Minnesota? I know there’s been some family news the past few days…congrats! Just curious on the other though!
August 31st, 2009 at 4:34 pm
I am with you, Michael, I love TV. But I do see the value in what that guy said and limiting TV. When John and I were engaged, my mother said to me, “If I can give you one piece of advice for a successful marriage. Please do not put a TV in your bedroom.” We never had TV’s in our rooms growing up, but John did, so I knew it was going to be a struggle. He took the request seriously, but said said that I would eventually change my mind. 8 years later, we still don’t have a TV in our bedroom and I know he wouldn’t have it any other way. That’s some good mom advice!!
August 31st, 2009 at 7:34 pm
On its way, Sadie – I’m working on it for tomorrow’s post. Thanks for the comment.
September 1st, 2009 at 5:54 pm
love it …
BTW, no tv at our house (just wii, xbox, apple tv, and anything else I could sneak in before my wife realized what i was doing!!)