Scrolling through social media, I looked up from my screen in frustration and contemplation. Why are people so different online from who we see in the pew? Devout, even pious on Sunday morning. Outrageous, even violent on Monday night. Where’s Jesus in all this?
Today, more than any other time in history, we have the opportunity to reveal our hearts to the world. Not only through our attitudes, actions, and words escaping out our mouths, but the very pulse of our hearts’ cry that pours out through our postings.
God chose when and where He’d create us in history. He created each of us for good works. Specific good works. Works designed for each of us individually. Works authored to help point others toward God.
It’s great to pray for believers on Sunday. Encourage those beside us in the pew. Text a friend a few words of inspiration.
What happens when the world wants to know us? Google churns, popping out our social media postings as initial hits. If someone were to know you only through social media postings, what impression would he develop? Would he find someone developing the Fruit of the Spirit? Would he find someone mirroring Christ’s love?
If we claim Christ, we each ought to consider the following: Are my stories a reflection of Jesus? A testimony to the joy and hope I have found in Him? Do my words leave others uplifted, with a smile on their faces and joy in their hearts?
We are indeed His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works. Good works God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them. (See Ephesians 1:10)
Let us use our online presence to showcase Jesus. Let us filter our responses to other’s pages through Philippians 4:8-9. Let us strive to reflect Christ. Isn’t that the very reason we call ourselves Christians?
Prayer: Dear Lord, Please help me submit all areas of my life to You. When I need to vent or rant, let it be to You. Align my wounded heart with Your’s so that my words won’t wound others, but instead encourage them and point them to You. Thank You for creating me and giving me good works and all I need to complete them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.