Have you noticed how much our world thrives on sensationalism? Whether it’s viral TikToks, clickbait headlines, or the latest drama, everyone seems to be chasing the next big “wow” moment. Stats back it up: Americans spend over 7 hours a day consuming digital media (source: Nielsen)—but how much of that time is spent seeking the truth that actually changes lives?
Now, don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a good story or a funny meme. But when we carry that same entertain me attitude into our faith, we risk walking right into spiritual danger.
Here’s why: When we focus on what’s flashy instead of what’s true, we make ourselves vulnerable to bad theology. And bad theology can lead to a spiritual shipwreck. It’s like following a GPS that says, “Turn left,” but doesn’t warn you about the cliff ahead.
Paul warns us in 2 Timothy 4:3-4, “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”
Ouch. That one stings. But it’s a timely reminder: Truth isn’t always popular, but it’s always necessary.
Let’s take a page out of the Bereans’ book (you’ll find them in Acts 17:11). These folks didn’t just accept what they heard, no matter how good it sounded. They “examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul said was true.” Paul, the Apostle! Even he wasn’t off the hook.
And here’s a pro tip: Always ask yourself, “What does the Bible say about this?” Then go check for yourself.
Don’t do it alone, though—ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Jesus promised in John 16:13, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth.” The Holy Spirit isn’t about drama or theatrics; He’s about clarity, conviction, and pointing us to Jesus.
Now, let’s be real—this takes work. It’s way easier to sit back and let someone else do the heavy lifting while we enjoy a “feel-good” message. But here’s the danger in that: Those “feel-good” moments can come from thieves, wolves, and robbers (hello, John 10:10), who only want to exploit God’s sheep.
Let’s not settle for the razzle-dazzle. Let’s crave the truth.
Your Call to Action:
- This week, take 10 minutes a day to dig into your Bible. Start with Acts 17 and John 10.
- When you hear a sermon or teaching, jot down the key points and search the Scriptures to verify them.
- Pray for discernment. Ask the Holy Spirit to make God’s truth clear to you.
Here’s the deal: The world might love entertainment, but we’re called to something better—God’s eternal truth. It’s worth every bit of effort, and it’s what keeps us anchored when life gets crazy.
So, what will you choose today—truth or theatrics?