How do you decide which TV shows you will or will not watch?
This has been a fascinating journey for me.
Especially in the streaming era where I have access to thousands of shows with various ratings and content.
Many of us were taught to stay away from certain ratings.
That’s the behavior that culturally gets taught, either in families or in church.
And then you start to wonder… why?
Would it really be that bad to watch a movie with that rating?
Is that really doctrine?
Good intentions from teachers and parents turn into kids wondering what the truth really is.
Teaching behavior can sometimes fix behavior.
But you know which strategy has been recommended by the Lord?
“And I give unto you a commandment that you shall teach one another the doctrine of the kingdom.” D&C 88:77
Doctrine.
“The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior.” -Boyd K. Packer
What’s the doctrine behind media choices?
The doctrine is that we do SO much to have the Holy Spirit’s presence with us as often as we can.
We repent and get baptized and take the sacrament so that we can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
When we have the Spirit’s presence with us, we are literally accompanied by a member of the Godhead.
We feel more peace, we receive direction, we feel comfort, we are warned… there are countless blessings from having the Spirit with us.
And there are warnings for what happens when we harden our hearts and make choices that keep the Spirit away from us.
Powerful doctrine, right?
When the conversation shifts to doctrine, behavior changes a whole lot faster.
What’s that practice or application your loved one is really struggling with?
Take the time to consider what the DOCTRINE is behind that action, and try starting there.
Studying behavior can certainly change behavior.
But for the real, long-lasting effects and for our hearts to be in the right place, we need to focus on teaching the doctrine.
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
2 Responses
There are three classes of information. Doctrine – Why, Principles – What, Application – How. We spend too much time in class on application. We should focus on the Nine Doctrines of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 1. The Godhead, 2. The Plan of Salvation, 3. The Atonement of Jesus Christ, 4. Dispensations, Apostasy, Restoration, 5. Prophets, 6. Priesthood, 7. covenants and Ordinances, 8 Marriage and Family, 9. Commandments. When we study a scripture we should identify which doctrine we are learning. Our Sunday School classes have turned into members telling stories of the application of doctrine. We need more focus on those 9 doctrines. Thanks for the great message this time. (All of your messages are wonderful)
Thank you for sharing these thoughts! It’s true, we can’t go wrong when we focus on the doctrine!