Social media is pretty great. Apparently a lot of people think so since literally billions of people use it. I love staying connected with long-distance friends and family, seeing what God is doing the world over, and laughing out loud over a hilarious meme. It’s wonderful being able to post a prayer request or read an encouraging status.
But social media can also be misused. Wasting time, ranting, sowing discord, getting involved in an ungodly relationship, or promoting self are a few examples of being a poor influence through our activities on social media. Chris Pirillo said, “Twitter is a great place to tell the world what you’re thinking before you’ve had a chance to think about it.” Jesus said, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matt. 12:36-37). Which category will our posts and messages fall into? Justified or condemned?
The following list is from Romans 12. It seems perfect for making sure our social media activity stays good and Christlike!
- Don’t be conformed to this world- v. 2
- Don’t think of yourself more highly than you ought- v. 3
- Show mercy with cheerfulness- v. 8
- Be loving- v. 9
- Avoid all evil and promote good- v. 9
- Be devoted to one another in brotherly love- v. 10
- Give preference to one another in honor- v. 10
- Contribute to the needs of the saints- v. 13
- Bless those who persecute you- v. 14
- Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep- v. 15
- Don’t be haughty- v. 16
- Associate with the lowly- v. 16
- Don’t be wise in your own estimation- v. 16
- Never pay back evil for evil- v. 17
- Respect what is right in the sight of all men- v. 17
- As much as possible, live at peace with all men- v. 18
- Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good- v. 21
“Don’t use social media to impress people; use it to impact people” (Dave Willis).
Life and Favor (Job 10:12) 