Think Before You “Like”

(This post is not referring to unbelievers or baby Christians.)

I write the following because I have been on both ends of the spectrum:

• The rebellious teen looking for approval.
• The praying parent waiting for a wayward child’s return.

While we may not think much about giving a thumbs up or “loving” a social media post, we must remember that one characteristic of a rebel is seeking acceptance in their sin. People of all ages are looking to justify their choices that are contrary to God’s Word and one avenue that offers a large audience is the internet community. Although we cannot see the heart behind any individual’s post, I do believe we can and should be more cautious in how we respond. For example:

• Would God be pleased with this photo?
• Would God give a “thumbs up” to this statement?
• Would I be feeding a teen’s rebellion by loving this story?
• Would I be strengthening a young adult’s bitterness by applauding this thought?
• Would I be encouraging an individual’s backsliding by sharing this post?

As Christians, if we are going to be on social media, we should treat it the same as “real life”.

We are called to be a light to this dark world. (Matt. 5:14-16)

We are called to be examples of the believers. (1 Tim. 4:12; 1 Cor. 11:1)

We are called to be ambassadors. (2 Cor. 5:20)

Leaving live interactions to enter the internet community does not change our calling.

Remember, we don’t have to give our stamp of approval on every post we see – even if “so and so” loved it. Instead of checking to see who else liked something before deciding whether or not to respond, why not check with God?

If we wouldn’t look an individual in the eye and say, “I agree wholeheartedly with what you just said” then we shouldn’t “like” or “love” that same thought on a social media platform.

If we wouldn’t tell an individual in person that we love their choice of entertainment, outfit, associations, etc. then we shouldn’t “like” or “love” those same things on social networks.

Real life and social media should have the same “approval guidelines.” These guidelines should always be based on Biblical principles.

Think about it.

Is the approval of Christians via various platforms keeping prodigals in the hog pen?

While we “love” a photo without giving it a second thought, is there a Godly momma who is struggling to function from another sleepless night of crying out to God for her wayward child?

An individual that is running from God doesn’t need our applause in their sin. Just like the prodigal son, they need to come to the end of themselves and see themselves as God sees them.

• Continue to love THEM? Yes!
• Continue to pray for THEM? Yes!
• “Like” or “love” their worldliness? No!

Backsliders need to understand that no matter how many positive responses they received on that last story,

“The world’s smiles can never shelter them from God’s frowns.” ~ Matthew Henry

May we, as Christians, refrain from smiling upon that which God is frowning.

“They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them.” Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“…whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“…a flattering mouth worketh ruin.” Proverbs 26:28 KJV

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” 1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬