Wholesome Diets

Wholesome Diets

(Read Philippians 4:8-9)

Lauren rushed up the steps and opened the door with her key. Since Mom started working, Lauren liked the freedom of being on her own for an hour before Mom got home. She poured herself a glass of milk, grabbed a chocolate cookie, and sat down to watch her favorite program on TV. The first few times Lauren had watched the program, she felt somewhat guilty. But now she watched and even listened to the off-color jokes without feeling any sense of guilt. In fact, she was laughing so hard she didn’t hear her mother’s car pull into the driveway.

When Mom entered the room, Lauren jumped up in surprise. “Mom, you’re home early!” she exclaimed.

Mom looked at the TV screen. “I don’t think you should be watching that,” she said.

“I watch it for the good part and don’t pay attention to the bad part,” replied Lauren.

Mom frowned. “We’ll have tacos tonight. Please go shred the lettuce and cheese,” she said. Glad to end the discussion about TV, Lauren quickly headed for the kitchen.

Soon Mother came in. She went to the refrigerator and took out some hamburger. She also pulled out a plastic container and opened it. She wrinkled her nose as she looked at the contents. Then she put the cover back on. “Oh, look,” she said as she handed it to Lauren. “Here’s the leftover turkey casserole. Since you like it so much, why don’t you heat it up and finish it tonight. I know you like it even better than tacos.”

“Oh, good!” exclaimed Lauren. But when she opened the container, she made a face. “Mom!” she exclaimed. “This is moldy! It’s gross!”

“Well, don’t eat the bad part,” said Mom. “Just eat the good part.”

“It’s all mixed up. I can’t eat just the good part.”

“Exactly,” said Mom.

Lauren slowly shook her head. “I see what you’re saying. From now on I’ll find something better to watch after school.”

“Wise decision,” Mom said as she took the container of spoiled food and threw it out. EMB

HOW ABOUT YOU?

Are you careful about what goes into your mind? Or do you think you can remain pure even when you allow offensive language or immoral behavior to fill your mind? Be careful! When you no longer notice the bad part, you’re in trouble! Ask God to cleanse your mind and help you to keep it clean.

Avoid Bad Influences

MEMORIZE:

“Keep away from every kind of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22