“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8, NIV
Eric was the social media manager at his small church. He was always looking for fun content to share on his church’s social media pages. He particularly liked questions and polls because they often boosted his engagement rates.
So, Eric decided to ask a simple question, “Do you prefer summer or winter?” He posted the question along with a couple of GIFs. One showed a shivering woman in winter, and another was a man happily smiling on a beach somewhere.
Within a few minutes, one of the church leaders reached out and asked Eric to remove the poll. Although he hadn’t realized it, the woman in the GIF was a well-known adult movie star. Eric quickly deleted the original poll. This time, he used a GIF from a TV series he knew well.
“That could have been ugly,” Eric admits. “Fortunately, the church member who spotted the poll was quick to be gracious. She could have left a nasty comment or stirred up trouble, but she didn’t.”
We all encounter content that we don’t like on social media sometimes. But take a moment and think about how you respond. Do you post a bunch of negative comments? Unfollow someone with different views? Or do you quietly pour grace over the situation?
Giving grace to others online is an important part of being a digital disciple.
Prayer:
Lord, when I see offensive content, help me to remember that my response is important. Let me cover the offense with grace and assume the best about someone else’s intentions. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
