With the spat of regulations coming in from governors across the nation, we have learned that social distancing is the number one method of preventing the COVID-19 from spreading to others.
That phrase, “social distancing,” carries with it the idea of removing one’s self from society physically. Restaurants, salons, industry, parks, schools, and even churches have felt the brunt of these restrictions.
Seemingly to make up for the lack of physical socialization, people flock to social media to help cope with the current crises. But how healthy is a social media blitz in a time of physical isolation? Arguably, it is not healthy in normal times and seasons of life, but especially when isolation and social upheaval are the order of the day. Social media can be used for good, but we must set some boundaries so it does not encroach on the things that matter most. Let us practice Social Media Distancing during these times of crises and hopefully afterward.
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 6:12, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.”
Paul gives us the principle that there are many things out there that are not sinful, but yet not helpful. There are many things in which he could partake, but he was not going to be brought into bondage by it. It sounds like he might have had social media in mind when he penned those words!
Many parents could cite any number of studies listing the ill effects of constant use of social media and begin to set limits for their children, but yet they seem to exempt themselves from those warnings and often immerse themselves into the world of social media. Let us all head the warnings of constant social media use and put some distance between ourselves and our virtual life.
While using Facebook is not inherently wrong, the amount of “life” spent using it could hardly be considered an investment of time.
I would like to give three thoughts on why social media distancing will be a help to the Christian in times such as these.
Social media amplifies the problem while rarely giving a Biblical solution.
I have noticed on those occasions I have found myself on social media that problems are stated and restated ad infinitum. As people scroll, they are hit with a salvo of news, most often bad or shocking news. Before the brain’s ability to even process that news, the scrolling continues, and a constant bombardment of information or misinformation is hurled at them. Let’s not get too deep into the woods about how truthful any of the information may or may not be.
The assault is self-inflicted and relentless. Links to articles are brushed by in search of single soundbites or memes that can be processed without engaging any gray matter. To process information, the mind must think – something social media does not leave time to do. To process information and current events Biblically, the mind must have time to meditate and measure against Scriptural principles. Rarely are there solid biblical responses to the blast of stories on your timeline. I sometimes wonder if populating social media with more, even good responses can be considered redeeming the time.
This amplification of the problem can cause worry, anxiety, and help Christians forget the promises of God rather than rely on them.
The less time we spend reading these posts, the less tendency we have to get aggravated or to become fearful.
Too many disagreements sink to ad hominem attacks that do not provoke others unto love or good works (Hebrews 10:24).
What I have found most distressing during these times is that even good people on either side of an issue fail to demonstrate grace are reduced to attacking the person rather than discussing the problem. Pastor Steven Chambers covers this extremely well in his article on Romans 14. I would highly recommend spending a few minutes reading it.
Unfortunately, it seems as though we have lost the art and ability to disagree. We used to be able to say, “we can agree to disagree,” or “good men disagree on this subject.” Now we just say that your position is hair-brained…and so are you!
We speak to others on a social platform in a way that we would not in person. Is it not better to remove ourselves from the consternation and argumentative spirit that drives social media “discussions” and focus on real-life ministry to those in our sphere of influence?
The same principles that govern our speech in person should regulate our online speech as well. (Ephesians 4:9)
It isolates people from their own family members, not just society.
At a time when the family should be drawing closer together social media is pushing them apart. Families began self-quarantining from each other long before COVID-19 thrust itself upon the scene. While out dining with my beautiful wife, we saw an entire family face deep into their devices. They were all alone…together.
Instead of allowing family isolation, engage in a rousing dinner conversation with your family. Call a senior that cannot get out because of this health scare and encourage and edify them with your friendship. Write letters, make phone calls, even type emails – communicate with those around you. Play a game with your children. The options are as limitless as your imagination.
Social media distancing is just an excuse to put down your device and engage with those around you. Set limits on how long you will allow yourself to delve into the vortex of social media and then keep to it!
During this time of isolation, we all need to make real connections with other people. We would all benefit from a little social media distancing, it would certainly allow us to minister in a more effective way to those around us, even if we cannot leave the house.
Please do not take this article as the rantings of an out of touch Luddite that refuses to keep up with the times, but as a pastor who sees firsthand the carnage that social media does to the spiritual and emotional lives of its users.
Copyright © 2020 Jim Davidson. All Rights Reserved. Used By Permission.
