Be Social!?
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed
by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve
what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:2
Social networks are here to stay. Social networking sites has reached over 82 percent of the world's online population representing 1.2 billion users around the world (10.30.11). Whether its Facebook, twitter or pinterest people are spending more time on these sites than ever. ComScore, a global leader in measuring the digital world, reported in January 2012 that over 6.7 billion hours were spent on social networks in the month of October (2011) alone. "Social Networking, as a category, ranked as the most popular content category in worldwide engagement, accounting for 19 percent of all the time spent online."(comSource) In March of 2007 that number was 6 percent. Nearly 1 in every 5 minutes spent online is now spent on social networking sites.
Priorities are shifting in every category of life and our "online life" is reflection of this fact.
Balance, perspective and prioritization are three key elements in living a life that is full of maturity and advancing towards full, and complete, growth as an individual. Am I saying social networks or internet use is bad thing? In of itself the answer would be absolutely not. Social networks are no more evil than money. Its our attitude towards money that can be evil, not money in of its self, correct?. Our parents remind us that moderation is the key in all things. God tells us in Proverbs 25:16 that; "If you find honey, eat just enough--too much of it, and you will vomit."
Balance is important; moderation is key.
Proper perspective and prioritization is vital too. Most would agree that if you owe others or the government (IRS) money, but join a country club your priorities are out of whack. And if you decided to take an expensive family vacation but haven't paid your mortgage for two months, or you're considerably behind on your monthly financial obligations, that you've lost all perspective concerning what is truly important and what should take priority; precedence, in your life.
In both instances the latter way of thinking would be correct.
God admonishes us as believers to "not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.". Why is this important? Because once we become transformed in our thinking then, and only then, are we able to know what God's true will is for our lives.
What line are you standing in?
Is it a line that starts with you and your wants? Is it a line that has it's eyes on the way of the world and all that it has to offer? Is it a line that puts a priority on vacations, country clubs and material items? Or are you standing behind others, letting their needs come first? More importantly, are you in line behind God, wanting to follow his every lead; his every move, allowing him to transform your mind in the process?
What are you standing in line for?
Where are you wanting; waiting, to go?
sbb 23.10.12
(520)
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