How to practice edifying speech on social media platforms

Social media has become part of our everyday routines. For one, this provides us with the means to maintain connections with loved ones on the other side of the globe.

It also exposes us to a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives and provides platforms for self-expression. 

Amid its undeniable benefits, social media also presents some challenges. One challenge is maintaining a positive and uplifting atmosphere.

As Christians, we are to be mindful of the impact our words and interactions have on others, even in the virtual realm. 

However, it is no secret that social media makes it easy to be tempted to engage in negativity.

Fueled by the power of anonymity, it is easy to get caught up in heated debates, hurtful comments, and a general lack of edification. 

Still, as Christians, we are to follow Christ’s footsteps of spreading love.

Edifying speech, in its essence, is the use of words that build up, encourage, and bring hope to others. This is the opposite of tearing down, spreading gossip, or engaging in toxic arguments. 

It is an intentional practice that requires self-control, empathy, and a genuine desire to reflect Christ's love in our online interactions.

In this article, we will explore practical ways you can practice edifying speech on social media platforms. 

We will guide you through the challenges of anonymity and the temptations to bring others down and provide you with actionable steps to foster a positive and uplifting online presence. 

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians on edifying speech

In Paul's letter to the Ephesians, he provides guidance and encouragement to fellow believers on how to live a godly life. This is to help them honor God's saving grace. 

Throughout the entire chapter, Paul emphasizes the importance of personal transformation and the renewal of the mind. According to him, these are essential aspects of a believer's journey.

Within this context, Paul instructs the Ephesian believers to "put away" certain behaviors and attitudes that are characteristic of unbelievers. These include malice, slander, commotion, and bitterness. 

Instead, he urges them to embrace the attitude of love and forgiveness. This is because these reflect the transformative work of Christ in their lives.

Specifically addressing their speech, Paul urges believers not to allow corrupt words to come out of their mouths. This includes things like profanity, gossip, and tearing others down with negative or hurtful words. 

Contrarily, Paul teaches that our speech should be "good for necessary edification." 

Here, the term "edification" is a metaphor drawn from the construction of a house. 

It carries the idea that our speech should be able to meet the needs of others. Moreover, it should have an upward focus on building them up in Christ.

In other words, edifying speech is about imparting grace to those we interact with.

Harm of putting others down on social media platforms

Rather than building them up in Christ and demonstrating attitudes of love, you may unknowingly cause harm to others. 

Here are some of them.

Destroys their body image

When you engage in body-shaming and put others down based on their appearance on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok, you contribute to the destruction of their body image. 

Your negative comments on their posts, focusing on their physical appearance, can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and a distorted perception of themselves.

As a result, you may perpetuate harmful beauty standards and rob them of the joy of self-acceptance.

Triggers depression and anxiety

By using hurtful words and belittling others in public forums or comment sections, such as on Twitter or YouTube, you can trigger depression and anxiety in those on the receiving end. 

Your negative comments, constant criticism, and derogatory remarks can erode their self-esteem. Moreover, it can create a constant fear of judgment from others.

You can also intensify their feelings of sadness and worry, pushing them further into a downward spiral of negative emotions.

Causes sleeping and eating disorders

The act of putting others down on social media can have profound consequences on their physical health as well. 

Your harmful words and cyberbullying can cause severe stress, leading to sleeping disorders such as insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns. 

Additionally, the emotional turmoil inflicted by your negative behavior can disrupt their relationship with food. This could potentially result in eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating.

How to impart grace on social media platforms

Social media platforms provide opportunities for both positive and negative interactions.

However, the harm caused by putting others down can be magnified due to the widespread reach and permanence of online content. 

With this being said, choose to use social media as a tool for encouragement, understanding, and kindness. Here are the ways how.

Pray that God will give you awareness of your words

Before posting or commenting, take a moment to pray that God will give you awareness of your words.

Seek His guidance in using your social media platform as a tool for edification and grace.

Educate yourself on topics that can be sensitive to others

Take the time to learn about diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences. 

It would help you engage in respectful and empathetic conversations, fostering an atmosphere of understanding and unity.

Ask for forgiveness for any corrupt words you said

Humble yourself and ask for forgiveness if you have spoken corrupt words or caused harm. 

Take responsibility for your actions and seek reconciliation with those you may have hurt. This act of humility and repentance demonstrates your commitment to growth and restoration.

Follow and share inspiring stories

Follow and share inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and acts of kindness and use your platform to amplify voices that spread positivity and make a difference in the world. 

By sharing uplifting content, you contribute to building others up and spreading grace to a wider audience.

Use hashtags that promote positivity

Use hashtags that promote positivity and encourage others. 

Whether it is #SpreadKindness, #ChooseLove, or #InspireOthers, incorporating these hashtags in your posts can help create a community of support, encouragement, and grace.

Report others who cause harm

Report individuals who engage in harmful behavior or cyberbullying. 

By taking action against those who cause harm, you protect others from negativity. In this way, you foster a safer online environment for everyone to thrive.

Post your learning experiences

Share your learning experiences and personal growth journeys. 

Use your platform to inspire and encourage others by sharing lessons you've learned.

It does not only need to be about your success stories as you can also post about obstacles you are facing.

Your vulnerability and authenticity can resonate with others and provide hope and encouragement.

Create short-form videos on self-care tips

Create short-form videos or posts offering self-care tips and strategies for their spiritual, mental, and emotional well-being. 

By sharing practical advice and promoting self-care, you contribute to the overall wellness of your audience. Moreover, you're imparting grace through guidance and support.

Post Biblical verses

Post Biblical verses and reflections that bring hope and encouragement. 

Share passages that have impacted your own faith journey. This way, you can be a source of inspiration and grace for others on social media.

Avoid judging, show understanding and empathy

Practice non-judgment and show understanding and empathy in the comment section. 

Avoid jumping to conclusions or making harsh judgments about others. 

Instead, seek to understand their perspective. Then, offer support, and engage in respectful dialogue. This is so you could foster an atmosphere of grace and compassion.

Be a blessing

Choose to be a blessing to others in the realm of social media rather than causing harm. 

Additionally, use your words and actions online to bring encouragement, kindness, and empathy to those who need it. 

Be the one who chooses to build up rather than tear down, who chooses to inspire rather than discourage.

Most importantly, be the one who can let them know of God’s saving grace.

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