Common Practices, Part 7

In the seventh week of our Common Practices series, we look at the importance of curating the amount, types, and messages of media we consume.

Discussion Questions for Common Practices Pt7 | May 31, 2020

Key Passage: Psalm 101:3, 119:37; Philippians 4:8

Discussion Questions

What are some of your favorite TV shows or movies that you have watched recently? Be honest!
Now, what are the “stories” that these TV shows or movies are telling? (Note the specific storylines, but the broader stories, values, and messages.)
How much do you think the stories of media form and shape you?
Why does Justin Earley caution against watching TV or Youtube alone?
Do you think that some of the media you engage is “worthless”? And if so, why do you keep watching it?
Justin Earley suggests curating stories for beauty, justice, and community. Which one is most lacking in your life?
Are you willing to do a time audit on your media consumption and then set a limit? If so, how will you do this? If not, why not?
Justin Earley gives some practical suggestions on pp. 125-126. Which one was most helpful for you?

Moving Forward

Buy the book The Common Rule by Justin Whitmel Earley if you have not already. Read pp. 111-126.
Watch the video by Justin Whitmel Earley for this chapter at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYx6oUex-_ixn3FYR1o_PYZ9QQUPVb1Sf
Do a media audit this week. Track the number of hours you engage:
- TV/movies on your TV
- Screen time on your smart phone
- Non-work surfing or entertainment on your laptop/tablet/computer
- Podcasts
- (Note: there are many other forms of media, but these are the primary ones that are most formative.)
Memorize Psalm 119:37 or Philippians 4:8.
Consider doing a full media fast for a whole week (radically reducing or eliminating all media).