6 Questions to Ask Every Time You Post

     We check social media pretty much every day. A lot of information enters our eye and ear gates. We get to choose which things we allow in and which things we “block.” so to speak. As teenage girls, we all want to popular and accepted by others, especially on social media. But sometimes, that means conforming to posting what they want to see, and not who you really are. Before you post on social media, ask yourself these 6 questions:

1. Is it true?                                {Ephesians 2:25}

     I know this one might seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes we blur the lines of what’s true and what isn’t online. I find it especially tempting to convey a message about what my life is like that doesn’t tell the whole truth.

            BE the real you, not a fake version of you!

2.      Does it build others up?          {Eph. 4:29}

     If it doesn’t build others up, don’t say it (or type it or post it).

     Social media can be a hotbed for drama. It’s tempting to jump in and voice our opinions constantly, but God’s Word tells us to zip our lips unless we can say something that elevates others. This includes passive-aggressive posts, not specifically naming someone but clearly communicating our frustration. If you are annoyed with someone or his or her position, pray for that person. Don’t post it.

 3.      Does it need to be said?      {Prov. 17:28}

     Just because we think it doesn’t mean we have to post it. Here are a few additional questions to help you decide if something needs to be said.

· Is it helpful?

· Is it original? (Or am I just saying the same thing everyone else is?)

· Will I be glad I said this after I calm down?

4. Is it all about me?                 {Philippians 2:3}

     I have a hunch that part of the reason we all love social media so much is because it gives us a chance to talk about our favorite subject—ourselves. But the Bible encourages us to think  about ourselves less and others more.

      Does a constant string of selfies, personal achievements, and announcements of our mood elevate us or others?

5. Does it say in public something better said in private?

     The Bible gives us a clear model for dealing with sin among believers in Matthew 18:15–20.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. First, make sure the sin is against you  {v. 15}.

2. Go to your Christian brother or sister one to one and try to talk it out just between the two of you {v. 15}.

3. If that doesn’t work, take one or two other adult Christians with you and try to talk it out again {v. 16}.

4. If that doesn’t work, involve your church leadership {v. 17}.

5. If that doesn’t work, separate yourself from the relationship {v. 17}.

     There is no room here for public blasting or criticizing. God’s Word encourages us to handle conflict with our Christians friends in person and in private.

6. Does it point to my Father?

      Matthew 5:15–16 says, “Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

      Do people know you’re a Christian when they see your Facebook profile? If a non-Christian looked at your page, would they see light or darkness?

Clean Up, Clear Out

      Go back through your social media history with these six questions in mind. Delete anything that doesn’t pass the test.

      Moving forward, ask yourself these questions every time you post. Ask the Lord to teach you to glorify Him online.