Love does not brag
1 Corinthians 13:4
This is the other side of the coin of jealousy. Our culture teaches us to be jealous until we get to our goal, and then we can start bragging. Social media is all about sharing accomplishments and being happy and confident when a goal is met. These aren’t the problem, but they are often abused by the boaster. There can be great uses for posting things which may encourage others to pursue their own goals and promote that which is good, but “take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak” 1 Corinthians 8:9. It is super easy to focus on our liberties and rights on social media. “Haters gonna hate” “If you don’t like it, unfriend me” and the likes become grounds to continue in our boasting in our liberties and blessings. The often overlooked aspect of bragging is attention-seeking. Social media often tempts us to brag about our troubles. If we can’t achieve the picture-perfect life like others have, then perhaps we can gain attention by our problems and how bad we have it. Complaining, then, becomes the result of one who is both jealous and boastful at the same time. It’s good to share struggles, confess sins, ask for prayers. But make sure you first consider your motivations. If all we are after is validation, attention, or excuses, then Social Media becomes a most dangerous platform for boasting, either in blessings or struggles.
Next: Pride