Have you ever read a Facebook post and felt the overwhelming desire to chime in? Perhaps it’s an opinion different from our own or information that is blatantly inaccurate. A little voice often whispers, urging me to resist, but it behooves me to enlighten the author.
First off, let me say that in normal times I am not a fan of social media. I much prefer real-life face-to-face conversations. I delight in one on one chats with my bff discussing important world issues or (almost certainly) PMS driven marital frustrations. I’m crazy about my rowdy Rummoli girls with their bulging bags of nickels and nacho dip in tow. But alas, these are anything but normal times and Facebook is a buzz of communication for better or for worse.
One of the complications that I’ve noticed with discussions on social media is our lack of accountability. Folks feel free to express any opinion and make brash statements they would never dare speak to a friend’s sweet face. Have you, like me, cringed at those mean girl comments too? I myself have written a well-intentioned reply that appeared downright friendly in my head, only to reread it later to my own horror.
Continually, I tell myself “Tess – do not get sucked in.” But inevitably, I discover a post that I’m certain is simply not true. Horns and whistles scream relentlessly in my mind. As a “firstborn” I am convinced it is my God-given responsibility to set this person straight. (*Note: I have not been able to find the Biblical reference for this at time of publication.)
On most occasions, the issue at hand is not a deep theological debate or anything of eternal value. Lately, the heated discussions have surrounded government rules, laws and personal choices.
It seems there is quite an army of Facebook soldiers vocalizing opinions and passing judgement on friends and neighbours, real and virtual. We don’t all agree and we never will. This fact is not newsworthy.
I’m not suggesting that commenting on a post is wrong. Heaven knows encouraging comments can be like a cool drink of water to a parched throat.
So listen, sister, when you and I feel compelled to add our two cents, here are some guidelines:
- Let our words be kind.
- Show each other some grace.
- Speak the truth in love.
Supporting each other is crucial. Facebook must agree, they rolled out a brand new emoji for just such a thing. And when you choose this smiley yellow guy hugging a heart, comments are always optional.
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35
Let your speech at all times be gracious and pleasant, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how to answer each one. Colossians 4:6
