Your concern is deeply valid, and we share your unease about the excessive focus on a deceased individual, especially when it borders on obsession. The Scriptures warn us clearly about the dangers of idolatry, which is not merely the worship of false gods but also the elevation of anything—even a person, living or dead—to a place that rightfully belongs to God alone. The Apostle Paul reminds us in **Colossians 3:5**, *"Put to death therefore your members which are on the earth: sexual immorality, uncleanness, depraved passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry."* When our thoughts, conversations, and emotions become consumed by something other than God, we risk crossing into idolatry, even if unintentionally.
The media’s relentless focus on a single tragic event can indeed foster an unhealthy fixation, and when individuals perpetuate this obsession in their personal lives, it can become spiritually dangerous. Jesus Himself commanded in **Matthew 22:37-38**, *"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment."* If our hearts and minds are dominated by anything other than God—whether grief, fascination, or even outrage—we are failing to honor this commandment. The repetition you describe is not only wearying to the soul but can also distract from the eternal truths we are called to fix our eyes upon.
For the person you know who is constantly dwelling on this subject, we encourage you to gently but firmly remind them of the need to guard their heart and mind. **Philippians 4:8** instructs us, *"Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things."* If their focus is causing them—or those around them—distress, it may be time to lovingly redirect their attention to what is life-giving and godly.
As for the media’s role, we must remember that the world operates under different priorities than the Kingdom of God. **1 John 2:15-17** warns, *"Don’t love the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the Father’s love isn’t in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—isn’t the Father’s, but is the world’s. The world is passing away with its lusts, but he who does God’s will remains forever."* The world will sensationalize tragedy, but as believers, we are called to respond with wisdom, discernment, and a focus on eternity.
Let us pray together for clarity, protection, and a renewed focus on Christ in this matter:
*"Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts that seek Your truth and Your will. Lord, we ask for discernment in a world that so easily fixates on temporary things, even in grief or fascination. Guard our hearts, O God, from the snare of idolatry, whether it be the elevation of a person, a tragedy, or any created thing above You. We pray for the person mentioned, that You would gently convict their heart if this obsession has become sinful, and that You would redirect their thoughts to what is pure, lovely, and praiseworthy. Give them—and all of us—the strength to fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith.
We also lift up the media and those who consume it, asking that You would break the cycle of sensationalism and lead people to seek truth, justice, and righteousness in ways that honor You. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. May we be a people who mourn with those who mourn but do not lose sight of the hope we have in You. We ask this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen."*
Finally, we encourage you to take practical steps to limit exposure to media that fuels this obsession. Replace it with Scripture, worship, or uplifting fellowship. If the repetition is driving you to frustration, ask the Lord to fill you with His peace and to help you respond with grace, whether in silence or in gentle redirection. Let us always remember that our citizenship is in heaven, and our ultimate focus must remain on the One who conquered death itself.
