Discernment With The Arts

Last month I encouraged you to step outside of your comfort zones (or expand them) by exploring all of the art forms with your children. I stand by that exhortation, but I wanted to add a caution: exercise discernment.

In a culture and country that advocates complete freedom and hedonism, it can be confusing to decide how far is too far. Should we be looking at this particular painting, even if it is considered a masterpiece? Is this book good for my son, despite the fact that I am seeing it affect his mood and demeanor in a negative way? How much of this type of music should I listen to, if the words are directly contrary to scripture and it is causing turmoil in my spirit? These are all things to wrestle with. It is tempting to ask for a prescriptive checklist of which particular works of art are acceptable and which are not. Instead of telling you what to do and what not to do, I’m going to leave you with things to ponder and remember as you experience this wonderful world of art.

1. Remember that your children are unique and different and pay attention to how the experience is affecting them. For example, there’s a popular book (which I will leave unnamed so as not to bind any consciences) that my younger brother wanted to try reading. He was at an age where it seemed appropriate and he could understand right from wrong. However, as he began to immerse himself in these books, we noticed that his attitude changed. He struggled more with rebellion and stubbornness. Because of this, my parents decided it was best to take the book away and save it for maturity or perhaps not ever. If you know your child, observe them and walk through life with them, you will be able to help them discern when things are not helpful to them, even if they are benign. ( Galatians 5:13)
2. Remember that we cannot rely on our own strength or judgement. We desperately need the Holy Spirit to guide us in each decision, including what kinds of art we partake in or enjoy. Thankfully, the Lord will give wisdom if we ask (James 1:5) and he wants us to depend upon His Spirit to guide and direct us.
3. Remember that we have limited time on this earth and we don’t want to entangle ourselves with anything that will draw us away from Christ, even if it is in the name of education! Through Christ we have freedom from sin and great liberty to enjoy so much that the Lord has provided in this life. Having said that, we don’t know how long we will live in this world and it is better to use our precious time for things that will edify our souls and others and help us to walk in the joy of obedience to Christ.

Giving those three thoughts to ponder when you are deciding how to engage the various forms of art, I will leave you with something more encouraging: Keep on exploring art and let it increase your sense of wonder in the creativity of God, but as in all other areas, seek the Lord for wisdom and discernment and trust that He will show you what is best for both you and your children.