Christians are called to guard their hearts and minds and to avoid anything that promotes sin or dishonors God. This includes books and movies. What we consume shapes our thoughts, emotions, and values.
Philippians 4:8 provides a clear guideline:
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure… meditate on these things.”
Books or movies filled with profanity, sexual immorality, witchcraft, violence, or ungodly themes should be avoided. Psalm 101:3 says:
“I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away.”
Entertainment is not neutral. It influences us, either drawing us closer to God or pulling us away. Ephesians 5:11 commands:
“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.”
While not every secular book or film is evil, Christians must use discernment. If a book or movie glorifies sin, mocks God, or stirs the flesh, it has no place in a believer’s life.
Romans 12:2 reminds us:
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
God calls His people to holiness in every area. Avoiding ungodly entertainment is not legalism, it is obedience to a holy standard. The goal is not restriction, but spiritual protection and growth.
