I’ve heard a lot of people, even in the secular world, bemoaning the evils of social media.
And the concerns are legitimate. Virtually all of us with a computer or smartphone use some form of it–Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest–even the blog you’re reading right now! All of these, while simplifying our lives in some ways, can certainly complicate it in others. Some say the easy connectivity with people all around the globe actually stunts our ability to develop meaningful personal relationships. Others lament the complete self-absorption social networking sites can encourage or the valuable time they can consume.
As I said, they’re all valid concerns. But, like it or not, social media is here to stay. As a way of gathering and sharing information and staying connected with friends and family, it’s an important and sometimes vital tool. If Facebook and sites like it ever meet their demise, it will only be because they are replaced with similar sites in better, more user-friendly formats. As much as some would love to turn back time and erase the rise of social media, it can’t be done. Let’s face it: This is life in the 21st century.
The misuse and abuse of social networking prompts some Christians to suggest abstaining from it altogether. While I believe that’s becoming increasingly difficult to do, I nevertheless respect those who feel that way.
I find it’s more common, however, for people to suggest shunning only certain forms of social media, usually Facebook, even while embracing others like Instagram or YouTube. ALL THREE are social media, ALL THREE are often misused and, personally, I’ve accidentally encountered far more filth on YouTube in an afternoon than I’ve encountered on Facebook in four years’ time. But maybe I should save that soapbox for another day…
Regardless, I understand why Facebook has a poor reputation with so many Christians. Why? Because of the way so many Christians use it! I’ve seen it for myself–Christians having online meltdowns or taking potshots at fellow believers for all the world, or at least for their 1136 “friends”, to see. But what some wish to blame on the advances of technology I believe rests justly at the feet of sinful man.
**Nothing makes an appearance on Facebook that is not first in the heart.
So how should a Christian use Facebook? How should their use of social networking look different from that of unbelievers?
How much time you spend on social media, who you befriend there, and how much information you share are issues for another time. There are some basic guidelines that we as Christians should keep in mind every time we post on our Facebook page or someone else’s. And though I’m naming Facebook in particular, I’m really speaking to all forms of social media. The same principles should apply for every tweet on Twitter, every pic on Instagram, every video on YouTube, and every comment posted to all of the above.
1. Could this post negatively affect my Christian testimony?
While I don’t believe a Christian’s Facebook status has to be spiritual 100% of the time, I DO believe it should be Christian 100% of the time! Whether we’re comfortable with it or not, what we post on Facebook reflects not only on us, but on the God we claim to serve. The language we use, the attitudes we present, and the pictures we post all demonstrate our devotion to Christ. Foul or crude language, suggestive statements or pictures, angry or critical rants, cruel and demeaning comments, even those intended for humor–ALL can bring the sincerity of our faith into question and dishonor God.
I’m sure you’ve heard some form of the following question: If you were accused of being a Christian, would there be evidence enough to convict you? Maybe we can add to that with this: If you were accused of being a Christian, would your Facebook page bring it into doubt?
2. What does this post say about me?
I realize this is closely related to #1, but bear with me here. Sometimes we can post things that don’t necessarily bring our faith into question, but may cause others to wonder about our disposition or our stability, which doesn’t do much to advance the cause of Christ either!
Let me give you an example. One night I had a horrible run-in at a local grocery store with an incredibly angry man who thought I had intentionally stolen his shopping cart. And I’m not kidding. The man was yelling in my face, I was in shock, and two employees in the produce department stopped their work and were poised to tackle him. It all happened very quickly and aside from scaring the living daylights out of me, I was unharmed, but I was really, really shaken by the entire encounter. When I got home later, still nervous and pretty distraught, I sat down and thought to spew some of my fear and frustration on Facebook.
Before I could finish the status, however, my husband stopped me and advised me not to post it. Later, when I’d had time to cool down a bit more, I was glad I had listened to him.
Truth be told, I sounded a little crazy in that post! I was crazy at that moment–still shaky and justifiably disturbed by an awful stranger who had reminded me how many human time bombs we’re brushing up against every day! But as understandable as my frustration and fear was, posting it on Facebook would not have been helpful. It may have earned me a little sympathy from a few people, but it may very well have made we look LOOPY to many others!
We should be very, very careful what we post to social media in times of emotional distress. We can all-too-easily come across as emotionally unstable people. We should never post in anger lest we look like embittered hotheads. We should avoid posting only the negatives of our lives. Without meaning to do so, we can look either incredibly self-centered, starved for attention, or hopelessly depressed.
3. Could this post hurt someone else?
Let me start out here by saying I realize there are people who are overly sensitive and easily offended. Sometimes we can make our best effort and still end up hurting someone unintentionally. And may I remind us all NOT to be that kind of Facebook user either–getting our feelings hurt over a photograph from a birthday party we weren’t invited to or becoming jealous over every opportunity we see someone else receive. Facebook does much to reveal our own pettiness sometimes.
But while we can’t tiptoe around the feelings of each and every friend on our friends list, it is important to slow down and consider how our posts may be perceived by others. Never post anything that could be considered unkind or vindictive. Avoid subjects you know to be sensitive issues with certain people. Respect the privacy of others and exercise caution in posting about them.
Blatant personal attacks on Facebook are inexcusably unChristian, but subtle, carefully-worded, probably-not-discernable-to-everyone jabs at others are just as wrong. When we have issues with another person, which is sure to happen because we are human, Facebook is not the place to air our differences OR make our own defense. (Nor is it the place to post scriptures strategically aimed at rebuking others either!)
Making fun of people is still unkind and unChristian, even when it can be done in the remote, detached way social media allows. Feelings can still be hurt, often in far greater ways than old-fashioned bullying allowed. Generally speaking, if what we are about to post is something we couldn’t say to a person face-to-face, then it’s likely we shouldn’t be posting it at all.
Thank you for your post. We sure have to be mindful of how we use social media as Christians in a mostly secular environment. It is very wise to really ponder the way we move around such circles so we are always reflecting the Light in us, which is what we are called to do…be the Salt and Light in such a dark world. thanks again! and Blessings to you!
I agree so much! Because social media allows us to be in contact with people even while being detached from them, it's easier to forget that our words there reflect on Christ as much as spoken words and actions elsewhere. It does us all good to remember what a lasting impression, (good or bad,) we can leave with the things we post on social media.
Thanks for reading!
This is such a great post, Tanya! I really have thought about shutting down my Facebook from time to time—but what an excellent opportunity to witness. At least once a week I have someone messaging me who sees my life and wants advice, help, answers, etc. I am able to point them to Jesus. As a stay at home, homeschooling mom, I'd not always be able to do this otherwise.
I, too, have been contacted numerous times by people seeking the Lord or looking for answers to questions and the only way they managed to find me was through Facebook. As unwisely as some people use it sometimes, I would hate to close the door to social media and miss out on the opportunity to affect people for good.
Thanks so much for stopping by today!
I too have thought about shutting down my facebook but then thought better of it, our family is spread out and we can follow each other's lives through pictures and posts and i didnt want to give that up for just a few people that like to put their "drama" out for all to see. I dont want to cause any hard feelings from unfriending people (they have a right to say what they want) I just hit the button and remove any of their future posts from my news feed. I also do love reading blogs and try to surround myself with people that think and feel the same as myself. When I find one, like today, that I really dont agree with what they have been putting out there lately, i didnt reply to their post in a negative manner, i just quietly stop following their site. My elders always taught me to stop and think before you speak or act and how it may affect others with what you say or do. Thank you for your post, more people need to read it 🙂 Have a great day!! deb
If more people would do just that–stop and THINK–before they speak or act, the drama on Facebook would be eliminated almost entirely. Sadly, must of our problem is that elders aren't teaching their children things like that anymore! It's important that we EXPECT better behavior of people, especially those claiming to be Christians.
I'm so glad you came by today, Deb! Hope you have a great day, too!
All of these are as sensible as they are timely! Basically our Facebook usage should be dealt with in the same way the Bible suggest we use our tongues! Thanks for giving us something to chew on!
That's so true, Helene! What a mess our tongues can make for us sometimes! Facebook "unleashed" causes many of the same problems.
Thank you so much for reading!
If anyone wanted to dispute the claim that all humans possess a sinful nature, we'd only have to point to facebook, eh? Or even better, to the "trolls" who write nasty comments online just because they think they are anonymous.
I like your line, "If you were accused of being a Christian, would your Facebook page bring it into doubt?" The sad thing is that posts which might cause a Christian to wonder about your heart will only confirm many non-Christian's perceptions of Christianity.
You're exactly right, Anna, and that's what makes it so sad. I don't think people realize sometimes what a reproach they can bring to the name of Christ with the things they post. Be it fair or not, sometimes we make judgments about people because of their kids. In the same way sometimes this world makes judgments about our God based on what they see out of His children!
So glad you stopped by today!
Thank you for spelling out my concerns about social media, especially facebook. I'm shocked by what people, Christians included, write there. And sometimes facebook makes me disappointed in my own life…jealousy floods my heart. I have had a good experience with blogging, but even there, your reminders are good. What am I saying matters to me.
Social media certainly reveals a lot about who we truly are. I've heard many people blame the technology for the problem, when that's hardly the case! Things like Facebook have just revealed a lot about the hearts of men. And maybe in some ways that's been a good thing! Sometimes we need to be brought face-to-face with our true character.
I am so glad you stopped by today, Anita!
These are great things to remember and keep in mind. Thanks for sharing them.
And thank you so much for reading!
This is Sooo good. Amazing reminders and a very balanced Christian perspective on facebook.
Thank you for such a compliment. And thanks for reading, Cara!
Ever since we were kids we have been taught to think before we speak, now we need to think before we post. Thanks so much for sharing
So true, Lexie! Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment!
Great points. I think what goes offline and online is the same. But I will admit I found I had to be very careful before "liking" certain comments that were derogatory towards political leaders- because I found myself convicted when I casually would "like" a joke or comment. Then as you mention I started to think about what I was saying even without adding a comment, and decided that I need to be more responsible with this casual action that can speak volumes or at least be perceived so differently through different viewpoints! I want to be Spirit led always with all I say and do…to the best of my ability. And more so with Him! Nice post.
Thank you, Dawn. And I didn't even mention that point, but it's a very good one! We should also be cautious what posts and comments we "like." I've seen people "like" things I know they hadn't even read all the way through! We should be careful–sometimes we can be endorsing things we don't really want to endorse!
Thanks so much for reading today!
Tanya thanks so much for sharing this. I think you did a good job relaying your thoughts. I think this is a more balanced approach. Social media can be used by the Lord to change lives and get the gospel to others.
I respect those who choose to stay away from social media altogether, but things like Facebook and Twitter have become so influential in our society I cannot imagine neglecting them. Like you said, it seems that NOT using them can be missing out on a wonderful opportunity to spread the gospel and be a witness to others.
I'm so glad you stopped by today, Judith! Thanks for reading!
I agree with your thoughts here wholeheartedly! Thanks so much for sharing it so clearly! I hope many people read this!!!
Tina
Thank you, Tina! I'm so glad you dropped in and left a comment!
very wise post
Thank you, Faith!
Tanya, Stopping in from Wise Woman where you were my neighbor. What a great post. I actually shut my Facebook down for many months because I was so disgusted with what was going on with it…and all the filthy email I was getting as a result of the connection to it (proven to be connected) but restarted it when I started my blog. Your points are wonderful for all social media and life in general.
Fortunately I've not had any problems like that in my Facebook experience, although I've heard of a few whose computers were infected with viruses from Facebook that caused some similar problems. Sadly, the biggest problems on Facebook are generally those that could easily be prevented by grown-ups acting like grown-ups and treating one another with kindness and respect.
Thank you for your kind words, Kim! I appreciate so much you stopping by today!
I would add that we should consider "why" we are posting something before we post, as facebook posts tend to be very self-promoting. Am I posting this because I want someone to think I am great (a great mom, a good friend, a fast runner/fit person, a great cook, a beautiful person, etc.)? Am I pointing people to Jesus or to myself?
There's a lot of truth in that. While I think there's nothing wrong with sharing some of our joys and successes on Facebook, (doing so can even bring glory to God if we do it in the right way,) it CAN be taken too far. It's always important to carefully consider who we're most trying to promote.
Thanks for reading today!
There's a lot of truth in that. While I think there's nothing wrong with sharing some of our joys and successes on Facebook, (doing so can even bring glory to God if we do it in the right way,) it CAN be taken too far. It's always important to carefully consider who we're most trying to promote.
Thanks for reading today!
I love this! The merits of social media are certainly dependent upon the people using it. As Christians we have a responsibility to let Christ shine through us as in the rest of our circle of influence. You expressed this very well, and I have shared it with my friends as well.
Thank you so much, Shari! We should be mindful to reflect Christ in all that we say and do, even on Facebook! Yet how easily we sometimes forget.
Thanks so much for reading and for taking the time to comment!
Wonderful post!!! Just wanted to let you know that your post is among the featured this week at A Mama's Story. Thanks for linking up and help yourself to a featured button. 🙂
Thank you! I appreciate that so very much!
I really appreciate your post about remaining Christian through social media, especially your point about not posting if it is something you are unable to say to an individual face to face. Although I often feel that no one is ever really reading my post, at times I am surprised to find responses. For this reason, I personally try to pray each time before I click "publish" that what I am about to post is truly a vehicle for what not what I want to say, but what God wants to say.
Does that make sense?
It absolutely does, Angie! We're far too cavalier with our posts sometimes and it would do us all good to stop and pray before we post anything. Of course, some people post so often that may be hard to do! But maybe that's something to pray about as well!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Great post. Thank you!
Thanks so much for reading, Kathy!
Thank you Tanya, for posting this article on Facebook and other Social Networking site. Many people only speak about of them in a negative way, I found that they are very useful in many way, I hope and pray that someday may the Lord our God make us use this kind of thing in His service to enlarge His kingdom
many of you sound like legalists..i listen to aerosmith and other secular bands but am a Christian and these bands are on my facebook as one of my musical interests…I'm not on facebook to impress my christianity to people and I don't feel that it's a requirement…. for example ,it's absurd when a person can't have a conversation on facebook about new technology and computers without somebody else turning the conversation to religion by replying how the bible 'prophecies such technology'…ie,suddenly the topic has been turned to religion by some legalist nutcase…chrsitianity is awesome,but religion and legalism is another story altogether..and when someone can't have a normal conversation without bringing in religion then either that person lacks communication skills or has a religion problem.it's a shame that some Christian people feel that 99% of their posts HAVE to be of a religious nature..too many people twist the scriptures and preach that conversation or music content that isn't about Christ is secular and secular=sin..good grief..
Wow, Dennis. I have to confess I'm not sure where all of that came from, but I'm glad you took the time to share it. For me, as for so many devout Christians I know, my faith affects my life in such a profound way I find it difficult NOT to talk about it in some way or another, and often on Facebook. It's not because I'm trying to shove my religion down anybody's throat; it's because I'm so excited and so thankful for what Christ has done in my life. And since scores of my Facebook friends are also Christians, it isn't usually a problem. Of course one of the beauties of Facebook is that if you are offended by what people write there, you always have the option of unfriending them so you don't have to see it. If you're often offended by what Christians write, I suppose I can only suggest you take that course.
But let me add that believing a person's life and actions should be altered by their faith is not legalism. While our own actions do nothing in the world to save us, (salvation comes by grace, through faith in Christ and nothing else, Ephesians 2:8-9,) our relationship with God is manifested in the things we say and do. Maintaining a Christlike Facebook won't earn me salvation, but it will affect my testimony. It's not legalism to wish to conduct myself in a way that brings glory to Christ and to encourage others to do the same. I'm afraid I fail to even see the point in a faith that doesn't impact every aspect of my life, including my Facebook.
I have never had a facebook account. I am 39 years old and could care less about facebook. I figure, if I haven't looked you up in the last 20 years, there is probably a good reason 🙂
While youtube can be vile, it is not sited in 65% of divorce cases as part of the reason for the divorce. Just saying.
I'm sure YouTube could be cited in huge numbers of pornography addictions, which I'm sure you will agree are no less sinful than extramarital affairs and divorce.
And just out of curiosity, I searched for a study citing a number as high as 65% and couldn't find one. The highest percentage I found was from a study three years ago that said 1/3 of divorces had been influenced or encouraged by Facebook. Granted, 1/3 is still a very high number, particularly if you're viewing Facebook as the culprit and not a sinful heart. The primary issue I have with the Facebook-causes-affairs argument is that, while Facebook is sometimes a meeting place for those who will eventually have an affair, these relationships are almost always perpetuated through personal cell phone use. But if I was to suggest that cell phone usage has no place in the life of a believer, most Christians would write me off as a nut! If Facebook is a contributor to extramarital affairs, cell phones are likely even more so.
And, incidentally, most affairs begin in the workplace, not on Facebook. But just as men and women should be cautious of their behavior in the workplace, they should be cautious of it on Facebook.
Like it or not, Facebook is not going away and I feel like teaching people how to conduct themselves there in a Christ-like manner is far more effective than condemning a technology that is neither capable of committing sin itself or of making anyone else sin.
Sorry, I was wrong. Facebook is sited as the reason for a third of divorces. I do not believe Facebook is more dangerous than any other social media, they are all equally dangerous. We are all accountable for our actions, and whether those actions cause others to stumble.
On that point I whole-heartedly agree, Theresa. People are far too casual with their online conduct, often not stopping to think how their words and actions are reflecting upon Christ and how they may be affecting the faith of others. It's so important for us to be mindful of our testimonies in every aspect of our lives.
I'm so glad you took the time to read and comment. Thanks for stopping by today!
Wise words. I've written a few "crazy" Facebook statuses in the past but praise God that His Spirit so often prompts me to slow down and wait a minute before clicking "post."
I can't tell you the times I've written out these long, emotional posts, only to delete them in the end because something was prompting me NOT to post. It would do us all well to be much slower and more prayerful about the things we say online for all to see!
Thanks so much for reading, MB!
Very late response to your post but only just stumbled on to it.
Want to say that one thing which really upsets me is seeing friends and or family post anti God statements on their wall on Facebook, but I try to keep some things in mind. First, it’s their wall, they can post as they like. Second, while a lot of posts for God are merely promoting a person’s belief, athiests posts often tend to be heavily laced with derision towards Christians and are quite pointed in their nastiness, however responding in kind with anti athiest quotes is equally bad. Better to match it with a purely positive quote about God and not stoop to personal attack.