Faith Factor: Part 2

Amber Schamel ~ Because of my faith, I am very picky about the books I read. More picky than most people. In fact, I’ve been called extreme. But I’ve been called extreme in my lifestyle too. LOL.

I usually only read in the Christian genre, and since I do, I expect them to reflect a Biblical worldview. I enjoy a flawed character, but I expect that the flaws and sins are portrayed as what they are...flaws and sins. According to the Scripture, sins and flaws should be repented of, and I expect that in my Christian literature.

I’m especially picky when it comes to the Romance genre. As a single Christian, I have certain standards of modesty and chastity that I hold to, and it bothers me when Christian authors do not hold their characters to such standards. Paul said, “It is good for a man not to touch a woman.” so I’m not okay with a lot of touchy-feelies before the couple is married. When I find a Romance that maintains respectful contact between the Hero and Heroine, I’ve found a keeper! Stephanie Grace Whitson’s A Stitch in Time was really good.

Kyleigh Dunn ~ One of the biggest differences I’ve found in the way my husband and I read or watch movies is that he tends to interpret worldviews and such from where the character is coming from, whereas I tend to interpret what characters say from my definitions and worldview, reading into it what I believe. I think that makes it easier for me to read and watch things that I don’t agree with all the way, but it can also lead to me not always being aware of things that are wrong, so that also means I have to be more careful than he does about consuming media that doesn’t have a Christian worldview.

Rebekah Morris ~ As a child of the King, I want to be careful what I put into my mind. This doesn’t mean I only read biographies of missionaries or overtly Christian books, but it does mean that I won’t read certain things. The Bible says to think of things that are true, so I stay away from fantasy and science fiction because they “can’t” be true. Whatsoever things are lovely means I’m going to stay away from horror, thrillers, and such genres. Whatsoever things are pure keeps me from most of the romance books out there or other graphic books that give too much information that could be defiling. My standard may not be what someone else’s is, but that is what I personally strive for. I know that what I put into my mind comes out in my behavior and my writings.

Nicole Sager ~ My faith definitely influences what I choose to read or not read. Every person has a worldview, and every author's worldview will be presented in their work whether or not they are trying to drive home a specific point. I try to steer clear of books (Christian or non-) that very obviously support issues I do not (divorce, immorality, alcohol, etc.). Reading is something I do for leisure time, and I just don't want to spend that time trying to root for a hero/heroine that I don't agree with!

Kate Willis ~ Scanning the shelves of the library, I pass over books that mock God and His people. I leave books with an emphasis on violence, strong romance, or witches to collect dust on the shelves. (Which usually leaves me with middle-grader books!) No matter what I'm reading, I discuss the worldview with my family or set the book aside if conscience dictates.