If Cain was living today, God might rebuke him by saying, "Sin is crouching at your computer; it desires to have you, but you must master it" (cf. Gen 4:7). Cybergarbage is just a mouse click away in many Christian homes. Although seven out of 10 professed Christians have Internet access, only one out of 10 chooses to use Internet filters (AFA Journal, September, 2000, p. 20)
Innocent attempts to utilize the computer as a research tool can bring up links to pornography sites. Fortunately, a variety of tools exist to help protect you and your family from far-too-easy access to pornography. Although none of these tools are perfect, they can help prevent exposure to negative content. Here is a general breakdown of these tools:
(1) Parental Controls. Most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have parental controls that can be utilized.
(2) Web Search Filters. Many search engines (i.e., Alta Vista, Lycos, Google) offer free Web search filtering options. Although not always prominently displayed on the search page, the option is generally available. These filters do not always block risque banner advertising or content you may personally find objectionable.
(3) Filtering Software. Software programs have been written to work with your ISP and browser to filter content from the World Wide Web. These filters may not work with majors ISPs (i.e., American Online). They block most objectionable sites but can be disabled by computer-savvy adults or children.
(4) Filtered ISPs. A number of companies have begun that offer Web filtering from their computers (e.g., Rated-G Online, America Family Online, Mayberry U.S.A., iExalt-net). These companies have identified thousands of websites as objectionable and strive to keep them from reaching your computer.
There are many good places to learn about Web Safety. A good place to start online is GetNetWise. Articles in religious journals also help, e.g., "Cleaning Supplies," Christianity Today, Summer 2000.
Filtering Internet access is a wise decision. As you use the Internet, this is one way you can submit yourself to God and resist the devil (cf. James 4:7).This item originally appeared in Gospel Advocate (Novemer 2000)
