“A person without self-control is like a city whose walls are broken.” (Proverbs 25:28, NIV)
Social media can be both a connection tool and an opportunity for impulse decisions—tweeting in anger, endlessly scrolling, or comparing ourselves to curated lifestyles. As a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), self-control is key for us to faithfully exist in this space. How do we learn to exercise self-control when temptations exist with just a click?
Proverbs compares a lack of self-control with a city without defenses. Our lives can become vulnerable to sin—whether that is tweeting out in anger, or spending hours wasted watching reels. Jesus displayed the kind of self-control we need—he stood firm on the word of God, even when tempted by Satan (Matthew 4:1-11). We can do the same by setting boundaries around social media and asking the Spirit for strength.
More practically, perhaps try a social media fast—one day per week without social media apps to be focused on prayer or family. Use tools to restrict how much time is wasted scrolling. When you don’t want to control yourself, first ask yourself: “Does this honor God?” I have personally struggled with the struggle of an impulsive response online, but simply stopping to pray before I respond has saved me from regret. Another suggestion: find someone to keep you accountable for your social media habits; feel free to share your desire with a friend or small group!
Self-control is not to be achieved perfectly, but progress can be made. It is to choose to reflect Christ in our clicks, words, and time. So turn to the Holy Spirit to help you to navigate social media and not fall to weakness.
What is one social media habit you want to control? Invite God to help you this week to be self-controlled as you engage socially. Share your goals below so we can encourage each other…