Philippians 1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
The word approve here literally means to try or put to the test things for the purpose of approving the good and rejecting the evil. Scripture tells us that we are to test things to see whether they are from The Lord or not (1 John 4:1). The word excellent can be translated valuable, or edifying. We need to be people who put things to the test of God’s Word because we are living in a day and age when people call good evil and evil good. Paul wrote to the Romans, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2) The Spirit of God’s work in the life of the believer is to conform us into the image of Jesus Christ.
I have found in my own life that in most cases what the world approves of or considers to be entertaining or fun is usually the opposite of the good, acceptable, or perfect will of God. For the most part, the world of cable television or motion picture entertainment revolves around disobeying the 10 commandments.
We are commanded to be wise and discerning in the use of our time. Many Christians fall prey to the snare of boredom in their walk with Jesus Christ because they are feasting on the junk food of TV and a number of other things that may be lawful, but certainly do not edify. Read about the fruit of sloth in Proverbs 24:30-34.
Saints, be aggressive in your faith!! Choose things that are excellent. Ask yourself, “Is this holy? Is this necessary? Does this edify me or others?”
I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live. (Deuteronomy 30:19)
