Disclaimer – “I don’t share this because I have everything figured out—I share it because I don’t. This is a lesson God is still teaching me, and my hope is that by walking through it together, we can grow in Him and reflect His light to make the world a better place.”
Recently, I’ve started to question the time I spend on social media. I often find myself saying, “I don’t have time for the things that matter.” But the truth is, I do have time—I’m just not always stewarding it well.
A pastor I once knew made a statement that has stayed with me: “We only have to look at how social media has become an idol in our lives. Can you imagine what the Apostle Paul would have thought about it?”
The Bible doesn’t mention social media directly, but it gives us timeless principles for how we use our words, time, and influence. James reminds us, “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19, ESV). Paul warns, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29, ESV). And Jesus Himself taught, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21, ESV).
So how do we apply biblical principles to the way we use social media?
Biblical Principles for Social Media
1) Speak to build others up: Instead of sharing gossip or negativity, post words that encourage, inspire, and point others to Christ (Ephesians 4:29).
2) Be slow to speak, quick to listen: Pause before posting. Ask if your words are true, helpful, and gracious (James 1:19).
3) Avoid self-promotion: Scripture reminds us, “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth” (Proverbs 27:2, ESV). Social media tempts us to seek glory for ourselves, but our goal should be to reflect God’s glory.
4) Practice self-control: Paul urges us, “I will not be dominated by anything” (1 Corinthians 6:12, ESV). Don’t let scrolling control your day or distract you from God.
5) Shine your light: Jesus calls us to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14–16). Use your platform to spread kindness, truth, and hope.
6) Do it all for God’s glory: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31, ESV).
Social media itself isn’t evil—it’s a tool. The question is whether it draws us closer to Christ or subtly leads our hearts away from Him.
This week, take an honest look at how much time and energy you devote to social media. Ask yourself: Am I using this tool to glorify God, or am I allowing it to become an idol in my life? Consider setting boundaries, fasting from it for a day, or using your platform intentionally to encourage and uplift others.
Pray the prayer of Psalm 19:14 over your posts:
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
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