CassieI’m a little nervous to post this one, but it’s something the Lord has been speaking to me about and convicting me about for a while now, so I think it worthwhile to share.
And it’s about social media: particularly social media and motherhood.
If you’re a mom who posts your kids/babies/life on social media, I have a question for you: Why do you do it?
If you’re anyone who posts anything on social media, I have the same question for you. Have you really ever asked yourself, “Why do I share things on social media?”
Now, I’m not trying to tell you that it’s wrong to do so. I’m just curious if you have ever asked yourself the question.
I’m prompting you today to search your heart. Deep down, is it filled with pride? Are you seeking the attention or affection of others, wanting them to say, “Look at her and her perfect life. Look at her kid’s cute clothes. Look at how nice her house is.” I know my heart is full of pride. I know my heart needs the saving work of Jesus, His shed blood, and His Holy Spirit to live out of humility: from a place that doesn’t want MY name exalted or lifted high, but HIS.
I think that’s what historical Christians would be just dumbfounded by about our generation: we set up these profiles and post photos are are all about ME. And sometimes, we justify it by saying, “This post is helping others”, or, “It’s just cuz it looks pretty.”
This is totally hypocritical because I’ve been there. But now, when I’m on social media, and when I post, I am asking myself the why first. And, for me, the two appropriate answers are:
1. I’m genuinely posting this to help others, not for my own glory, and;
2. I’m sharing this with family and friends who care to see into my life, because, let’s face it: social media is the modern version of sharing photo albums.
To do #2 truly authentically, I created a “Close Friends” story to share such photos with only those friends and family who I trust, who are maybe even praying for me and my family and who I know have our best interest at heart.
I’m not at all saying you need to have the same convictions. I’m simply sharing what the Lord has put on my heart in hopes that you would take the time to seek Him on this matter for your own life.
We ALL know that those perfect little squares don’t properly reflect what our days truly look like. Take motherhood for example. Filtered shots of our children playing peacefully can lead viewers to covet, hold a naive perspective about what motherhood is really like, and to idolize and idealize. I’m not saying these social media users are responsible for other people’s heart issues; those are for them to deal with and shouldn’t be blamed on anyone else. We can all achieve the freedom in Christ that prevents us from coveting and idolizing and, if it’s a temptation, unfollow certain accounts or simply delete social media.
BUT…what is the point of your posts? What is the aesthetic post of your living room or the snap of your toddler in a beige outfit smiling when moments ago they were screaming or the dolled up, filtered selfie achieving for God’s Kingdom?
These are just my humble thoughts, and, oh boy, I am the “chief of all sinners” when it comes to these things and maybe that’s why I’m writing about it. Preaching to myself. Trying to figure it out with Jesus. Hoping someone out there has given thought to these same things.
I do believe social media can be used for good and for God’s glory. I really do. But is it possible to achieve that without any pride or selfish ambition or self glorification getting in the way? That I’m not so sure of.
What kind of impact do you want to be making? Why are you on social media? When you’re on your deathbed one day, will you be glad for the hours upon hours you spent scrolling, the time you spent editing something to post, the check-ins to see how many likes you got or where your follower count is at? It’s so important for us to consider these things. I know it sounds harsh, but it’s the truth!
What are your thoughts on social media? Have you found a balance with it in which it’s not all-consuming but you can use it for good? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Finally, here are some Scripture verses that convict me when it comes to social media:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” –Romans 12:2
“Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.”” -1 Corinthians 15:33
“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. -1 Corinthians 10:23
“A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.” -Proverbs 18:2
“Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” -1 Peter 5:5
