After a long break, the hosts share insights on the significance of character in social media use. They discuss the challenges of returning online, emphasizing how spiritual health can be affected by digital interactions. The conversation dives into the need for meaningful content creation, urging an authentic approach to faith in the digital age. Listeners are encouraged to navigate social media with humility and integrity, fostering genuine connections while prioritizing spiritual growth over visibility. Engaging with purpose is key.
Taking breaks from social media can significantly improve spiritual wellness, allowing for deeper reflection and family connections.
Christians should approach social media intentionally, ensuring their engagement promotes spiritual growth rather than mindless distractions.
Practicing humility and mindfulness in online interactions can lead to constructive discussions and prevent unnecessary conflict.
Deep dives
The Importance of Withdrawal for Spiritual Health
Taking time away from social media is emphasized as a beneficial practice for spiritual wellness. The hosts share their experience of stepping back to focus on their mental and emotional states, arguing that constant engagement can lead to neglecting one's soul. They highlight the clarity and reduced anxiety that come from withdrawing, allowing room for reflection and family connection. This period of disengagement also reveals the superficiality of some relationships that exist primarily on social media.
Navigating Time on Social Media Mindfully
The discussion stresses the need for Christians to be intentional about how they engage with social media. They suggest evaluating the motivations behind content consumption and creation, urging individuals to avoid filling their time with mindless scrolling. The hosts emphasize that time spent on social media should be purposeful, promoting spiritual growth and community building rather than serving as a distraction or a source of anxiety. They propose that faithful stewardship of time can transform one's online experience into a more enriching engagement.
The Role of Reasonableness and Wisdom in Online Interactions
Being reasonable and thoughtful in social media interactions is highlighted as crucial for effective communication and conflict resolution. The hosts encourage listeners to approach online discourse with humility, understanding that one may not possess the full picture of situations they engage in. Recognizing the impact of one's words in a digital space, they call for a spirit of grace and consideration, especially in disagreements. This mindfulness can help in fostering more constructive discussions and avoiding unnecessary strife.
Self-Examination Before Critiquing Others
The hosts draw attention to the Biblical principle of removing the log from one's own eye before addressing others' faults. They argue that personal reflection and self-examination are necessary for offering constructive feedback to others in both life and social media. This requires a commitment to self-awareness and personal growth, which can enhance one’s ability to judge situations righteously. Ultimately, they assert that a healthy relationship with oneself leads to more compassionate and accurate interactions in the digital world.
Guarding the Heart Against Negative Influences
The final point emphasizes the importance of guarding one’s heart as a protective measure against negative influences encountered online. The hosts advise being cautious about the content one consumes and the accounts one follows, suggesting that such choices should align with personal spiritual health and growth. They encourage listeners to be discerning about what feeds their hearts and to be proactive in avoiding sources that may lead to discontent or pride. This self-protection is framed as a vital aspect of sustaining a healthy spiritual life.
The Perrys are back after many months away spent tending to their souls and their family. The time offline was good and at times “profoundly boring,” but as they re-engage with social media, they’ve got some thoughts.
The Perrys discuss what scripture has to say about our character, and how Christians ought to be on social media because of what the Bible says. How we show up on social media matters, and we should honor Christ while we’re there.
Scripture references:
Ephesians 5:15-17
Matthew 6:25-34
Philippians 4:11-13
Philippians 2:3
Philippians 4:5
James 1:19-20
Matthew 7:3-5
Proverbs 4:23
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