How Should I Show Up on Social Media?
By Keri Eichberger
I want what God wants.
This statement referenced a central desire for Christ followers in last Sunday’s church sermon, and it camped firm in my mind as I considered something I’d been stewing over for months. It may seem trivial to some, but I have a hunch the majority can relate to the new-age conundrum concerning the role social media should play in our lives.
Should I dive in or jump off? How much or little? Say or post this or that?
Let me state the obvious: It’s extremely complicated. Personally, if I crafted a definition for the term “love-hate relationship” in a 21st century dictionary it would simply read, “social media.” And I bet near 90% of the population, ages twelve to seventy-two, could agree with this rationale. The vast majority seem to enjoy staying up-to-date with out-of-town family and friends, celebrating accomplishments and anniversaries, and sharing in the joy of births. As well as being inspired, encouraged, and offering support in return online. But we can’t stand the negatives that come with it. Like our distractedness, the comparison game, and pressure to post, like, or comment. Not to mention the frustration, bitterness, or extreme anger that stirs within when coming across strong opposing opinions. And if you’ve cued into the drawbacks, you’ve maybe concluded what I have over and again. It’s all too much. It’s just not worth it, I’ve said a hundred times, and heard echoed back as often.
But the tug-of-war struggle is real. Because most of us feel eventually reeled back in. And is that all bad? Moreover, is there any good?
I’m not sure if you’re approaching social media for business, ministry, or strictly entertainment purposes. But since committing my life to ministry I’ve pursued the online world from a heart’s desire to honor and glorify God. A posture I’m sure you’d like to aim for too.
Several months back, my life swelled past overload, and among other adjustments, social media was quick to get the boot. For the record, besides feeling a little clueless as to what friend’s kid just had a birthday, I loved the disconnect. And if you’ve never taken a break, I highly recommend it for the sake of putting it in its place and seeing how God wants to use your scattered, but brief, free moments to speak to your heart and mind in new ways. But like I said, a time came, I felt called back to Meta-land.
But how should I return and what place should this beast have in my life?
When posed with the question, Do you want what God wants? as an example of living a spirit versus flesh-led life (Romans 8), I was jolted by my quick convicting internal YES. For all things in my life, yes. And being that I’d been mulling over a social media return I knew this mindset was my best start.
Remember the old WWJD bracelets from the 90s? I’m certain, What Would Jesus Do is still a relevant question to ask in our daily practices and plans today too.
So what would Jesus do with social media? I’d say good indicators can be found taking a peek at his life. Considering Jesus’ time on earth, I think these three biblical observations might help us all navigate this challenging topic.
Jesus modeled prayer, love, and truth.
Prayer. Jesus not only instructed us to pray, but he consistently consulted with his Father, too. I think he also wants us to speak with him before sharing our hearts with others. Now know that he may lead you to take a break altogether or a pause before posting. Or possibly prompt you to shift, even delete, your words. But seek first, and rely always on God’s direction as your guiding light. (Mark 1:35, Luke 5:16, Matthew 14:23, Luke 6:12)
Love. Jesus was outward with compassionate love and spent the majority of his time with people. He came to serve, not to be served. Therefore, I find it not only okay to be present in community, but if pursued in servant love will be a reflection of the life of our savior. Like Jesus, we should encourage and unify. Practice peace, compassion, meekness, forgiveness, and humility. He lowered himself, never proud or boastful. Not exalting himself. Similarly, social media is not a place to lift ourselves. But to humbly serve and lift up others with the love of Jesus. (Matthew 20:28, Mark 6:3, Colossians 3:12-13, James 4:10)
Truth. Jesus himself was the living truth. And represented the truth 100% of the time. So should we. And if you ever wonder what exactly is true. The Bible is your go-to. I know not everything you say online will reference scripture–though I think God smiles when we openly share our faith in love–but make sure you screen your words and shares for anything opposing the Word of God. (John 14:6, John 1:14)
Intersecting Faith & Life:
Practice prayer, love, and truth. It is my hope that we never forget as Christians: we want what God wants. Friend, his way, only his way, leads to abundant life. Peace. And joy. Remember to pray to discern what he wants, before sharing words, inspirations, and ideas. Remember to show up with displays of love and compassion. And always reflect the truth. I know it’s impossible to do life just as Jesus would, but I also know if you bring him in, mirror his example, and allow the spirit to lead all your interactions, your experience will be more blessed and you will be a great blessing to others.
How do you approach social media as a Christian? Join the conversation on Crosswalk Forums!
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