Self-control in a High Speed World: Social Faith

By Pastor Alex Ruelo

People need self-control in a high speed world. Social media influences everyone. But sometimes, you cannot help but scroll. The internet has evolved so much through the years and now, it is indispensable. The world has changed and it has evolved with it. Social media has brought global connectivity and this is where the problem begins.

Matthew 12:36 says, “And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak.” This does not only pertain to what we say with our mouth. This includes all forms of communication, including the ones online. We have to be careful of the things we say because you are responsible for it. People might forget the things you say but the internet never forgets. Even if you delete the things that you previously posted, your digital footprints remain.

The mental health crisis scare. Because of social media, the increase of people with mental health problems went up to an alarming rate. Many, especially the youth, are struggling. When they post, the likes, or lack thereof, have a very big effect on their brain. Patience used to be a virtue. But now, a lack of response, even for a minute or two, has negative effects on them.

Polarization and careless speech. Reacting to what you see becomes a need. Social media posts the opposite of what you need and makes you react negatively. When your digital tongue starts speaking and you post careless words, it stresses you out.

The broken image. Man is created in God’s image. It is not a sin to try to become beautiful. But if you alter what God has created because you are not satisfied with what you are bestowed with, then it is already a sin. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Refrain from speaking ill of other people especially online. If you cannot say it face to face, do not post it anywhere.

On the other hand. Social media and the internet also has its benefits. It used to be very difficult to get in touch friends and relatives especially when they are in another part of the world. But because of the former and the latter, it’s now as easy as counting 1,2 and 3. You can now know what is going on everywhere in the world. Most of all, you can spread awareness about certain issues and most importantly, you can share the good news of Christ.

But there are certain things you need to learn.

Your words are permanent before God. Matthew 12:36-37 says, “And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”” But the Bible also says the Lord keeps no record of wrongs. The Lord will hold you accountable for the things you did as well as the things that you did not do.

Your digital footprint reveals your heart. Matthew 12:34 says, “You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say.” Your posts, just like your words, reveal what is really in your heart. But then again Philippians 4:8 says, “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Think of everything you say or post before you say or post it.

A life without self-control is a life without defense. Proverbs 25:28 says, “A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” You cannot change anything by posting because only God can change things. The only thing you can do is to pray for the changes that you want to happen. 1 Corinthians 9:27 says, “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.”

Guard your testimony. It is your ministry. Matthew 5:16 says, “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” You can post anything you want. But what does it say about you? Philippians 2:15 says, “so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.” Be careful of what you put online. It is a mirror of you.

Before you post, here are the things you need to think of:

Pause. Before you post. Proverbs 21:23 says, “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.” Guard your mouth.

Reflect. Proverbs 15:28 says, “The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.” Ask yourself if what you will post reflects the heart of Christ or is it only because of the heat of the moment?

Protect. 1 Corinthians 9:27 says, “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.”

Ask if your posts will represent your faith even after 5 or 10 years.

Pray. Psalm 141:3 says, “Take control of what I say, O Lord, and guard my lips.” Ask if what you will post is the will of the Lord. Ultimately, prayer is the answer to anything and everything.

Let all of the things you do be glorifying to the Lord, even your social media accounts. Surrender it to the Lord too.