The Social Network and God
The massive use of the social network in today’s society has ushered in a lack of control at the user level. It is seen with the increase of cases of depression among adolescents and the problems of eating disorders that are a consequence of the addiction to the Internet. Experts believe that the addiction to the use of the network in general is induced by the giants that possess networks. As an example, it is known that Facebook uses algorithms designed to magnify users’ attention to things linked to benefit revenues from advertising sales. All these algorithms give an advantage to negative messages such as fear and hatred that easily capture more customers.
The priorities of the companies that operate the social networks focus only on their economic growth and on studying formulas that attract attention at the expense of our privacy. It is enough to analyze the news that the media publishes at every moment. The problem with children becomes greater when parents do not pay attention to the quality and quantity of the programs used. It is said that in the USA 80 percent of parents are already worried about the high consumption of technology to which each child over six years is involved.
If we are believers, we must be careful with the use of social networks, because it reflects the use of our time and the fulfillment not only of work, but also in our family and church or spiritual matters. “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17 ESV) Since we are conscious children until our last heartbeat, we have the purpose of our lives to glorify our Lord. So the use of our time can honor or dishonor the Lord, depending on our wills. “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be enslaved by anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12 ESV).
There is a notable difference between the wise and conscious use and the addictive abuse of the social network. It is clinically proven that addiction to the social network brings negative consequences from the physical and moral point of view. There is a dividing line that needs discernment to differentiate the good from the bad and that must be learned through the family, school and church. A Christian should not believe that he honors God by abusing the social network.
We can even observe much distraction due to social media inside the temple during the time of worship. There are others who believe that reading or transcribing any biblical verse to the network fulfills our duties as Christians. That is a mistake because in some way the passion for prayer, the reading of the Word and the praise or adoration are indispensable parts of our devotion and have been lost.
Let’s not place ourselves at the mercy of God’s enemy. “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV).
May God bless you
