Social Media: A Christian's Guidebook

What do billions of people check daily? Their blood sugar? Their bank account? Their attitude? No! They check their social media! Whether it be on Instagram, TikTok or any number of other sites, experiencing a part of life through a social network site is a daily routine for the majority.

Social media has quickly become one of the primary ways people communicate with each other. We post photos from our lives, exchange comments and likes, and share links to reels that entertain or interest us.

We let the world know who we are through our personal online profiles. We proclaim what we like and dislike, what makes us happy or sad and certainly what makes us unique. Social media can be a great way to communicate with our best friends, reconnect with long lost friends and even meet new people.

For all the enjoyment that can come through these sites, are there also cautions that Christians should take note of so that their impact is positive? When we set up or edit our profiles, what should be foremost on our minds? Following are several questions we recommend you ask as you explore the world through social media.

Do I properly represent God?

Many people are inherently selfish and, for the most part, live just for themselves. Their profiles reflect this focus. A godly perspective considers that while one's profile tells the world about a person, there is a more important focus.

Ephesians 5:8 states, "For you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light" (New American Standard Bible, emphasis added throughout). A social media presence is not just about representing self, but is also an opportunity to be a reflection of what and in whom we believe.

If you take a look at your profile, is there something there that indicates that you are a Christian? Or does your page look just like everyone else's? Is there something there that identifies you as a person of faith in God the Father and Jesus Christ, convicted and convinced of truth?

Do I avoid foul language?

Does our use of language prove us to be a child of light or a child of darkness? If our comments contain swear words, cuss words, base slang, euphemisms or sexual innuendo, are we reflecting light or furthering darkness? Colossians 3:8 tells us this: "But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth" (King James Version).

While we might not use this language when we speak, it has been shown that it's easier for many people to type these things than to speak them. We must remove offensive language from our content so that we properly represent our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Do I avoid inappropriate topics?

What type of topics do you post? We can't always control what topics show up in our feed, but we can decide how and what we will contribute to and share on social media. As a representative of light, a Christian is careful to ensure that the topics he or she has posted are uplifting. Subjects such as sexual activity, perversion, disrespect, character assassination, etc., have no place on your page. Ephesians 5:11-12 tells us, "Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret" (NASB).

Also remember that when you apply for a job, potential employers often take a look at the social network sites of potential employees. Are there topics on your page that would embarrass you in the eyes of employers or cause them to reject you? Or does the content of your site confirm that you would be a good future employee?

Are my pictures appropriate?

Are there suggestive or inappropriate pictures on your page? Our world seems bent on raising sexiness to be the highest of virtues. Don't fall into the trap of posting seductive, racy or sexy pictures of yourself or others on social media.

God's Word tells us, "Your adornment must not be merely external—braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God" (1 Peter 3:3-4, NASB). Modesty and decorum should rank high on a young Christian's list as he or she decides what to post.

What about drinking pictures? Do our party pictures look just like those of everyone else? Or do our posted images reflect godly living? It's important to be aware of when and where your pictures are being taken. One bad judgment resulting in an embarrassing photo can speed around the world in a matter of minutes and then never go away!

We should also be aware that anything posted online can be archived and thereby preserved indefinitely. Poor judgment in posting pictures can haunt us from that time forward. Pictures that seemed fun at the time, when viewed in another context, are seen to say something different from what we intended. It is important to set your profile to "private" to help protect yourself and your friends. This way, only those you designate as friends will have access to your photos and other material.

Are my songs in line with right values?

Another way we identify ourselves as children of light is through the music we choose to listen to. Do you ever share inappropriate songs? Do the songs you post contain raw lyrics? Are the lyrics of the songs uplifting? Are they more representative of light, or of darkness?

There are some songs that God says He detests. "Take away from Me the noise of your songs; I will not even listen to the sound of your harps" (Amos 5:23, NASB). We should strive to choose music that brings honor to God.

Are the links I share acceptable?

Ask yourself, "Are there inappropriate links in my bio?" One of the biblical proverbs states, "He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm" (Proverbs 13:20, NASB).

The sites we link to can be seen as representing who we are. Do we share links to dark, vulgar, disrespectful sites? Or do the links we post encourage others in the direction of godly thinking and action? Are they helpful and interesting or disrespectful and degrading?

A few final questions

Before you post content, ask yourself a few more questions. Would a family member be embarrassed by something on your pages? Would you be ashamed to share something you have posted with your pastor? Realize you also represent your Church family. Would people be attracted to the truth of the Bible and the Church you are part of by the example you set on social media?

And most importantly, would God approve of your page? We are reminded in 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NASB) that "the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His." Even with a profile set to "private," we know that nothing is a secret from God.

The popularity of social media continues to grow. Let's encourage each other to use ours in a godly manner. "In speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe" (1 Timothy 4:12, NASB).