Have you ever scrolled through social media and felt a bit miserable because you felt like your life is not as perfect as your peers’? Have you ever wondered how much of what is presented on social media is actually authentic, and how much is a curated version of reality?
Social media often presents an idealized version of reality, which can create unrealistic expectations for users. When we compare ourselves to the idealized versions of life presented on social media, we may feel like our own lives are inadequate or lacking. But have you ever stopped to consider how this comparison affects our mental health and self-esteem? Is it fair to judge our own lives based on what we see online, knowing that people often only share the best moments of their lives?
- How do these unrealistic expectations set by social media impact our relationships with others and our purpose in life? Do they foster a culture of competition and comparison, or can they be a source of inspiration and connection?
This issue is particularly prevalent among young people who are still trying to find their place in the world. Social media can create unrealistic expectations for them, leading them to believe that success, happiness, and fulfillment are only attainable through material possessions such as luxury cars, designer clothing, beautiful homes, and exotic travel destinations. Comparing ourselves to the lives of others on social media can negatively impact our mental health and self-esteem.
The highlight reels presented on social media can lead young people to believe that a perfect life consists of a flawless appearance, a picturesque home, and a constant stream of exciting experiences. This portrayal can create pressure to meet these unrealistic expectations, leading to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depression. The quest for external validation and the pursuit of material possessions can overshadow an otherwise more meaningful life.
As we read in the Bible, humanity was originally created to live in a perfect environment. In the book of Genesis, we learn that God created Adam and Eve and placed them in a perfect garden called Eden. In this garden, they had everything they needed for their sustenance and enjoyment. The environment surrounding them was perfect, with abundant natural resources and pristine nature. Their lives were characterized by constant happiness, peace, and harmony with each other and with God.
This perfect environment that Adam and Eve experienced in Eden was not just a physical paradise but also a spiritual one. They had a direct relationship with God and were in communion with Him. They had a clear sense of purpose and were free from the worries, stress, and anxiety that plague humanity today.
Before the fall, they enjoyed a life of giving and serving, as well as being grateful to their Creator for everything they were given. They were given the privilege to care for the garden of Eden and all the creatures in it, thus being true to the image they were created in: a God that gives, serves, and loves unconditionally.
The pursuit of material possessions and external validation can lead to a focus on self-promotion and personal gain at the expense of meaningful relationships and spiritual growth. On the other hand, one of the underlying motivators for the focus on material possessions and external validation on social media is the human tendency towards selfishness. In a culture that emphasizes individual achievement and success, it’s easy to become focused on ourselves and our own desires. Social media can exacerbate this tendency by presenting a constant stream of images and messages that reinforce the idea that our worth and value are based on our possessions and accomplishments.
In this context, the pursuit of material possessions and external validation can become a means of elevating ourselves above others and satisfying our own desires for recognition and status. However, this focus on self-promotion and personal gain can come at the expense of meaningful relationships, spiritual growth, and a deeper sense of purpose and fulfilment in life.
In the book of Genesis we read that, Satan tempts Eve with the idea that eating from the forbidden tree would make her like God, with the ability to determine what is right and wrong. This appeal to pride and self-centeredness is at the core of Satan’s strategy to lead humanity astray.
“Satan presented before them (Adam and Eve) the tree of knowledge of good and evil, telling them that its fruit would open their eyes, and make them like God. Thus he declared that they would possess a knowledge that would enable them to govern the world, to control the laws of nature, and to command the obedience of all created beings” Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 53.
- As Christians, we are called to reject self-centeredness and focus on serving others and living in alignment with God’s will.
As Christians, we are called to reject the self-centeredness that is so prevalent in our culture and instead we are presented with the opportunity to focus on serving others and living in alignment with God’s will. This means recognizing that our true worth and value come from our relationship with God and our ability to reflect His love and compassion to others. It means cultivating a spirit of humility and gratitude, and seeking to use our resources and abilities to benefit others rather than just ourselves.
In this way, we can find fulfillment not in the accumulation of possessions or the praise or likes in real life or on social media but in the knowledge that we are living in alignment with God’s plan for us and making a positive difference in the lives of those around us.
- Jesus’ message of hope and salvation was particularly appealing to those who were marginalized and oppressed, as he offered them a vision of a better life, both in this world and in the next.
The reason people were drawn to Jesus, was his message of hope and salvation. He spoke of a kingdom that was not of this world, a place where the meek would inherit the earth and the poor in spirit would be blessed. This message was particularly appealing to marginalized and oppressed people, such as the poor, the sick, and the outcasts of society. Jesus offered them a vision of a better life, both in this world and in the next.
People were drawn to him because of his warmth, compassion, and humility. He was known for his healing miracles, such as curing the blind and the lame, and for his ability to reach out to those who were suffering and in need. His words and deeds inspired hope and faith in those around him.
Imagine if we used our platforms to uplift and inspire those who are struggling. Instead of comparing ourselves to others or showing off our own achievements, we could use social media as a tool to connect with and encourage others. Imagine the impact we could make if we focused more on reaching out to those who are hurting or lost, showing them the love and hope that can be found through faith in God.
Social media provides us with an opportunity to connect with people all over the world, and we should use this platform to share the message of God’s love and salvation. We can use our own experiences and testimonies to encourage others and show them that they are not alone in their struggles.
- Using our platforms to uplift and inspire those who are struggling could make a positive difference in the lives of others.
In a world where social media can often be a source of negativity and division, let us strive to use it for good. Let us focus on connecting with and uplifting those who are in need of love and support, and sharing the hope and joy that can be found through a life of faith in God. Let us strive to be intentional in our social media usage not creating jealousy in ourselves or others while looking at things on these platforms but encourage and support others by kind words and thoughts. By doing so, we can create a more positive and encouraging online community, and make a difference in the lives of those who may be searching for hope and support.
Remember, the purpose of social media is to connect and share with one another. Let us use this tool to spread positivity, love, and encouragement, and make a positive impact in the world around us as God would want us to.