What is the role of social media in our lives? It keeps us connected, informed, updated on trends and entertained. Now that media is in our pockets with social media, we are in control of what role it plays in our lives.
I believe God has given me a passion for communicating truth to people. Social media allows me to do that in my area of study, Strategic Communications. Media has become a means for me to live out God’s purpose and serve Him with my gifts.
Among the different forms of media, the common denominator is connection.
In previous generations, people were only aware of their immediate surroundings. Events on the other side of the world were unknown to them until much later, if at all. I believe that has had both positive and negative impacts on society.
While this hyperawareness can be good for business and staying informed, it can also foster comparison and create noise that distracts from the ultimate purpose of life. Ironically, being so connected through media has led to disconnection in relationships.
This article about the loneliness young people experience explains that Generation Z is the loneliest generation yet despite their use of social media. We were created by a relational God who made us in His image. We were made for social interaction, not digital interaction.
I believe media is a tool. Tools can be constructive or destructive depending on how they are used. It is an important reminder that while media is meant to help us, it should not be something we rely on to give us purpose.