Contentment – Social Media

ByJim Stephens

Contentment – Social Media

Reading: Philippians 4:8; Ephesians 4:25-32 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. (Philippians 4:8 NLT)

31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT) Unhealthy use of social media creates discontent and discouragement. So we’re sitting on the couch in our pajamas watching NCIS reruns (again), scrolling through our Facebook Timeline on the tablet while the commercials are on. We’re looking at this seemingly endless stream of photos of fancy dinners and stories of vacations, parties, family gatherings – all the exciting adventures our Facebook Friends are having. We’re comparing our dull lives to their exciting lives, and we end up feeling discontented, left out, and alone. Or is that just me? I started writing a few words about Social Media and Contentment and it quickly grew to seven pages. GraceNotes is limited to one page! Here’s a sketch of the stuff I’ve written. I’m going to post it as 1 to 3 blog posts over the next few days and I’ll send the links to you as soon as they’re done. Social Media and Contentment 1. Know why and how you’re using Social Media. Have a plan and stay within its boundaries.
2. Decide what you’re going to see on Social Media. You can choose what you see. Use the tools provided to channel the right things into your Timeline.
3. Choose to respond to the info stream in healthy, helpful ways. Social Media gives you tools to respond and interact. Be intentional and wise.
4. Choose well and wisely what you post on Social Media.

  • Make sure it’s true.
  • Make sure it will do no harm.
  • Make sure it adds value to those who read it (and to your online reputation).

Prayer:

Father, I wish the Apostle Paul had a Facebook profile! I’d have been one of his most committed followers. Help me and my friends to use the tools and resources of the time we live in to learn and grow and share and bless. In Jesus’ Name!

]]>