Counsel #16 — Influence With Purpose

Picture: Counsel #16 — Influence With PurposeCLi 26.1

Like everything in life, social media can be used to influence others positively or negatively. Unfortunately, many individuals on applications like Instagram and Facebook use it to spread misinformation, bully others, perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and create unrealistic standards that negatively impact mental health.CLi 26.2

However, social media also offers an opportunity to raise awareness, promote service projects, share uplifting spiritual content, and support those dealing with addiction, loss, or other hardships. Each person has a platform they can use to either uplift God’s truth and kindness or promote negativity and worldly values. As Christians, we should make it our mission to be a positive influence whenever we engage online. A kind word, a message of hope, or an encouraging post can make a profound difference in someone’s life. Let’s strive to use social media as a tool to share God’s love and light with a world in need.^{[23]https://adventistreview.org/feature/good-and-faithful-digital-servants/}CLi 26.3

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” Matthew 5:13 NIVCLi 26.4

“Our words, our acts, our dress, our deportment, even the expression of the countenance, has an influence. Upon the impression thus made there hang results for good or evil which no man can measure.” Ellen White in Reflecting Christ, p. 262CLi 26.5

Reflect: What is one way you can be a positive influence on social media?CLi 26.6