Key Bible Verse: You are foreigners and aliens here. So I warn you to keep away from evil desires because they fight against your very souls (1 Peter 2:11). Bonus Reading: 1 Peter 4:1-5

"Some people think it's crazy that guys my age play video games," says Phil Baker, 30, a computer systems analyst from Portland, Oregon. "But we grew up playing them and it's just a way to relieve stress." Other men call video gaming an excellent entertainment value. A few admit it's an escape from the realities of life.

As video games become more realistic and powerful, analysts predict they'll surpass movies and even some sports as America's entertainment choice. But gamers should exercise caution about the games they play.

A few tips:

Check the ratings. If a game is M for mature only or A for adult only, that game is likely to have the kind of content you would find in an R or NC-17 rated movie.

Read reviews. Video game critics can inform you about what you're getting yourself into before you buy a game. Many times just reading a game's description will tip you off that the game isn't for you.

Be a good guardian. If children have access to your games, think twice before you bring something home that could negatively impact them.

Listen to your conscience. It's there for a reason. Some video games just aren't good for you.

—Kirk Noonan in New Man

My Response: Is even playing unobjectionable video games a good way to invest my time?

Thought to Apply: He who wants to keep his garden tidy doesn't reserve a plot for weeds.—Dag Hammarskjöld

Adapted from New Man (3-4/03) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Your Word warns that the Devil's attacks aren't primarily physical. Keep me vigilant to skirmishes in the virtual realm.

				Try an Issue of Men of Integrity Free! Name Street Address City/State/Zip E-mail Address No credit card required. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Offer valid in U.S. only. Click here for International orders. If you decide you want to keep Men of Integrity coming, honor your invoice for just $19.95 and receive five more issues, a full year in all. If not, simply write "cancel" across the invoice and return it. The trial issue is yours to keep, regardless. Give Men of Integrity as a gift Buy 1 gift subscription, get 1 FREE!

FREE Newsletter Sign up for the Men of Integrity Newsletter    RSS Feed   RSS Help