Day 13

Modern day pirates... I know most of you haven't been following the news but a big story right now is how some modern-day pirates took over an American Food Relief ship around the southern part of Africa. They hold up these boats for ransom until they get what they want. Usually money and depending on the cargo, it could be millions of dollars. Yesterday, a couple snipers took out 3 of the pirates and took back a hostage.

Today, you get to be a modern pirate "sniper". I know that sounds weird, but follow me on this: over the next 11 months, you will watch, listen, and read whatever you want. Most of the time you won't think about how it's affecting your relationship with God. You'll just listen to Lady Gaga or watch Scrubs or read some book without noticing how your mind and heart are being taken captive. I don't know what music you are missing. I don't know what TV show or movie you are craving to see. I don't know what book or magazine or website (MySpace, Facebook, etc.) you are trying to avoid. But it's time to take a hard look at it. Put it in your "scope" and nail it for what it is.

Pick out your favorite band or music that you've been avoiding. Go onto Google and look up the lyrics or the artist profile. What are the lyrics saying? What does the band stand for? How does that compare to what God expects from you?

Pick out your favorite TV show or movie (new or old). What does the movie or TV show talk about or focus on? What are they making fun of? What are they desensitizing you to? What is the main theme or idea behind it? What does the Bible say about it?

Today is about you and God taking a hard look at what you are avoiding. The media are "soul pirates". They try to convince you that some things are "not that big of a deal"... yet God thinks some of it is. The media is after you... trying to attract you... trying to get you to "follow"... trying to take you hostage.

You may want to take some time to pray about the different things you feel like you are missing out on... ask God to reveal to you what things you need to give up and not turn back to.

Day 13... you're almost halfway there. The next 2 weeks are crucial. Stay on track. Seek God. Share your story.