Picture: Counsel #25 — Social Media and Your Identity CSL 35.1
In today’s world, it’s tough to escape the pull of social media, and it often shapes how we see ourselves. We’re constantly bombarded with highlight reels—everyone’s "best" selves, often filtered and airbrushed, showcasing triumphs while keeping struggles hidden. It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers: how many likes, shares, or followers we have. If our sense of self isn’t firmly rooted in our faith and God’s unconditional love, then social media can really shake our confidence and security.[45] https://adventistreview.org/world/south-america/why-adventist-young-people-must-fight-for-their-identity-and-how-to-do-it/ CSL 35.2
While praise from others might feel good in the moment, it’s fleeting. What truly matters are the words that last forever, the ultimate affirmation from God of “Well done, good and faithful servant.” CSL 35.3
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride in one’s possessions—is not from the Father, but is from the world. And the world with its lust is passing away, but the one who does the will of God remains forever.” 1 John 2:15-17 CSB CSL 35.4
“Better than all the words of earthly praise, will be the Saviour’s words to His faithful servants, ‘Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’” Ellen White in Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 374 CSL 35.5
Reflect: How can you align your use of social media with doing "the will of God," which "remains forever"? CSL 35.6
