I love social media. Over the years, FearNot Ministries has continued to have a presence on many social media sites to share the Gospel and encourage people to dig deeper into God’s Word and engage in a closer, more intimate relationship with Christ Jesus. Social media can do great good; however, like anything that can be used for good, social media can present some problems. What grieves me most is seeing how people take to Facebook, Instagram or Twitter with personal issues that involve others or could demean themselves.
God’s Word clearly tells us to speak life to others (Ephesians 4:29). Our words have the power to kill or the power to build up; our words have the power to destroy or to encourage (Proverbs 18:21). We have the option to choose what we say—and our very goal for the words we speak. The Bible says we should speak with people, expecting to bring out the best in others in conversation (Colossians 4:6). What an aim! God’s Word also tells us how to approach fellow believers we have issues with so that we can do so in a loving and graceful manner that will still hold the person accountable. The Bible says to first go to the person alone. If the person will not listen, take another person with you (Matthew 18:15-17). The Bible says when a fellow believer has a different opinion as you, you are to treat them gently (Romans 14:1). Posting something on Facebook for a large swarm of people to see is destructive. Not only does it damage those it involves, but it shows non-believers something far from Christ, and can become a stumbling block to those seeking to know more about Jesus.
As you interact online, remember to share the love of Christ. Remember that anything you post could be seen by more than just you. Remember that your words have the power to destroy. Speak life. Speak using good discernment (knowing what is right and what is wrong). Speak with love. May your words be few and your love and grace runneth over.
Tania Gutekunst 