40 Days of Grace (Day 12): Mindful Media Consumption

March 18, 2025: Lent is a time of spiritual renewal, calling us to fast, pray, and grow closer to God. While we often focus on fasting from food, we sometimes overlook the impact of what we consume with our eyes and ears. It is easy to disconnect media consumption from faith, but everything we take in—movies, music, social media, and news—affects our thinking and actions, often without us realizing it. What we watch, listen to, and engage with shapes our values and influences our choices. This Lent, let us commit to consuming media that strengthens our faith rather than weakens it.

1. Avoid Gossip-Filled TV Shows & Social Media Drama

Many reality TV shows, talk shows, and social media trends thrive on gossip, conflict, and toxic behavior. Constant exposure to such content can lead to judgmental attitudes, envy, and unnecessary involvement in negativity. Instead, choose entertainment that encourages kindness, truth, and meaningful conversations.

Does the content I watch encourage me to think well of others, or does it fill my mind with negativity?

2. Stay Away from OTT Shows & Movies with Sexual Content & Nudity

Streaming platforms are filled with shows that normalize premarital sex, infidelity, and explicit scenes. Repeated exposure to such content can desensitize us to sin and distort our understanding of relationships and human dignity. It is important to be mindful of what we allow into our minds and hearts.

If Jesus were sitting next to me, would I still choose to watch this?

3. Be Cautious of Media with Vulgar Language & Crude Jokes

Movies, TV shows, and even comedy specials often contain profanity and crude humor that diminish human dignity. While it may seem harmless, hearing foul language repeatedly can influence our speech, thoughts, and attitudes. Entertainment should uplift and encourage good character.

Does what I watch or listen to help me speak with kindness and respect, or does it influence me to be careless with my words?

4. Avoid Music That Contains Profanity or Demeans Others

Many songs in mainstream media promote violence, objectify people, or use excessive profanity. Even if the tune is catchy, lyrics shape our thoughts and perspectives. Choosing music that uplifts and carries positive messages helps in maintaining a pure mind.

Are the songs I listen to helping me grow in virtue, or are they filling my mind with worldly desires and unholy thoughts?

5. Limit Social Media & Avoid Mindless Scrolling

Social media can become a distraction, leading to comparison, envy, and wasted time. It is easy to spend hours scrolling through content that adds little value to our spiritual or personal growth. Instead, use social media purposefully—to connect with loved ones, gain inspiration, and share positivity.

Is my time on social media drawing me closer to what truly matters, or is it just a distraction?

6. Say No to Violent & Horror Content That Disturbs Peace of Mind

Many action movies and horror films contain excessive violence, demonic themes, and disturbing imagery. Such content can create fear, anxiety, or even desensitize us to real-life suffering. Choosing entertainment that brings peace and hope helps in fostering a healthy mindset.

Does this content bring me peace, or does it fill my mind with fear and aggression?

7. Be Mindful of Spreading False or Sensationalized News

News is a powerful form of media, and it is easy to fall into the trap of sharing misinformation without verifying facts. Spreading false news, especially about people or sensitive topics, contributes to fear, confusion, and division. Responsible media consumption includes fact-checking sources and avoiding content that promotes falsehoods.

Am I sharing news that is truthful and constructive, or am I spreading misinformation without verifying it?

8. Replace Toxic Media with Morally Uplifting Entertainment

Being mindful of what we consume does not mean giving up entertainment altogether. There are plenty of wholesome movies, books, and shows that align with faith and moral values. Entertainment can still be enjoyable as long as it respects human dignity and encourages goodness.

Does my choice of entertainment align with my values, or am I compromising my morals for the sake of enjoyment?

9. Pray & Introspect Before Consuming Any Media

Before watching a show, listening to a song, or scrolling online, take a moment to ask: Is this drawing me closer to Christ or leading me away? A simple prayer for guidance can help in making better choices.

Do I invite God into my entertainment choices, or do I separate my media habits from my faith?

Lent is an opportunity to purify not just our actions but also our thoughts and habits. By being mindful of what we consume, we create space for God's grace to transform us and strengthen our faith. Let us choose media that uplifts, inspires, and brings us closer to Christ.

By Catholic Connect Reporter