Recently, I have been burdened to write a number of short articles that would provoke thought surrounding the use of social media. I currently have a Facebook account, and have previously had Instagram and Twitter accounts as well. I am not suggesting the abandonment of social media (though an argument could be made for such), but I do believe that it is the responsibility of every believer to steward the use of this modern technology well.
No one questions that social media (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat, TikTok) is a revolutionary platform for keeping track of family, friends, and other interests. Text, pictures, and videos can be shared across the globe in a matter of seconds. With these great capabilities also comes great potential for problems. Much of the content of social media is in conflict with what believers ought to be dwelling upon according to Philippians 4 (things that are true, pure, just, lovely, etc.). Failure to follow God’s directions for our thinking will have grave consequences. Numerous studies have shown that social media and screen use–especially among teens–is often linked to an increase in mental illness symptoms. If we, as believers, are to use social media safely and effectively, we must avoid the pitfalls that accompany its use. The following are practical steps that will help establish guidelines for avoiding the pitfalls of social media:
1. Set a Time Limit
One essential guideline for avoiding social media pitfalls is setting a time limit on your use of social media. Often, we don’t actually realize how much time we spend on social media. For iPhone users, the Screen Time feature is a helpful tool for tracking and regulating time spent on social media. It is easy to fritter away hours on social media every day.
A study done in 2022 showed that 35% of teens used social media more than several times a day. For many (teens and adults alike), social media becomes the default activity in any spare moment. I have spoken to those who did not realize how much of an addiction social media had become until that pattern of turning to it at every moment of rest was challenged. Determine a time limit that is reasonable for what you desire to accomplish.
If you want to catch up with your friends and family and perhaps make an occasional update, ten or fifteen minutes a day may be a reasonable time limit. Decide what amount of time will work for you and discipline yourself to stick to it.
2. Set a Time of Day
This guideline is perhaps less about what time of day you should use social media, and more about what times you shouldn’t! I have found that protecting the early morning and late-night times are essential for my walk with the Lord.
It is tempting to roll over in bed in the morning and begin scrolling social media. This sets a poor tone for the day. It also tends to be a hinderance to my ability to focus as I then turn to spend time in God’s Word. If your brain is immediately stimulated by social media when you wake up, it takes more time to settle your mind into reading God’s Word and spending time in prayer.
For this reason, I avoid using social media in the morning when I first get up. I also try to avoid using social media as the last thing I do before going to sleep. It’s natural, you find yourself lying in bed next to your phone, and before you know it you are scrolling yourself to sleep. Spending a few minutes praying or meditating on Scripture is a much better way to close your day. It is spiritually encouraging instead of spiritually deadening and it won’t lead to insomnia.
There may be additional times that are helpful to avoid social media to be present for family or other reasons.
3. Allow Access
Having someone close to you that has access to your social media is an important form of accountability. This is particularly important for teens and young people (more in a future article).
Social media is not only full of impure content, but it gives the user access to people across the globe who may unknowingly or purposefully cause harm. Having another person that can see your social media and private conversations adds a helpful layer of accountability.
4. Avoid Reels
Among the aspects of social media that are not particularly helpful are “reels.” Reels are short clips or videos that, if you aren’t careful, you’ll find yourself scrolling for hours. Most social media platforms have some form of reels. This is a primary spot where you will encounter content that “influencers” are producing.
The content of these reels is often worthless, and worse, the effect that they have on the brain is harmful. Scrolling through reels is essentially seeking that quick dopamine release that each new video brings. We are quickly sucked into an endless loop of mind-numbing content and at the end of our daily session, we feel as empty as before.
5. Observe Attitude Changes
Perhaps you’ve found yourself becoming frustrated with those around you while you attempt to scroll your phone. Maybe, after a period of social media use, you sense added tension around your family.
Screens and social media use can often have unintended emotional effects such as irritability and withdrawal. As you use social media, observe how that affects your mood and behavior in your relationships. Never allow social media to hinder your relationship to those around you.