Youth Devotional

August 20th 2024

Media (Part 3)
In our previous lessons, we have seen how media can impact
what we believe and what we desire. In this study, we will
look at how media can impact how we portray ourselves.
Whether we recognize it or not, media can play a role in our
own identity. Various forms of media idolize television stars,
musicians, movie actors/actresses (etc.) in a way that may
cause us to want to be just like them. We often feel the key
to popularity and success is imitating the looks of famous
Hollywood stars. Consider the following questions as to how
this often plays out:

 Think about some of the most popular celebrities (actors,musicians, etc.).
What qualities do these people have that make them popular?
They are usually very beautiful/handsome, rich, very talented, funny, “smooth,” stylish, outgoing, (etc.).

 In what ways do you see people trying to be just like these celebrities?
Dressing alike (copying their fashion, hairstyles, etc.), talking like them, acting like them
and imitating their lifestyle.

 Do you see any potential dangers in trying to be like these celebrities?
Explain. Yes. We waste a lot of time/money trying to be like them. It is a wrong
focus – trying to imitate the world.

 According to Eph. 2:10, how should we be identified?
 It should be clear that we are followers of Christ in how we look/act.
The media offers a variety of personalities we can follow.
However, trying to be just like these individuals will prove to
be hopeless. And in many ways, it will prove to be anything
but Christ-like. Scripture does not call us to consume all that
the culture offers, but rather to use our gifts and talents to
make an impact on the culture for Christ. It was for this
reason that Paul was trying to imitate Christ (I Cor. 11:1). If
we determine to do the same, people will recognize the
difference as they see the power of Christ at work in our lives!