This was an interesting
book. At less than fifty pages, it was
definitely a quick read. I found how I
was reacting to it surprising given there isn’t much time to react. Half way through this book I found myself seeing
things that I know I need to work on. Do
I let Facebook interrupt other activities?
Yes, because sometimes I read in front of the computer. That needs to
stop unless I’m looking something up as I read.
Do I spend too much time checking Facebook? According to the author, yes I do. The reality is I probably do, but do I spend
the day on Facebook when I could be doing something else? No.
Good points were made. People do not seem to realize that there are
real people reading their comments and getting hurt by their words. I’ve always said that. People will say things to or about people on
the computer that they would not say face to face. I’ve never understood that, but it is the
truth. I am a huge proponent for making
sure our children are safe on the internet, do not spent so much time on it
that they are distracted from the real world and put online relationships
before real ones. I did like the twelve
guidelines for social media in the back of the book, although I didn’t agree
with all of them.
I found the author to lean a
little heavily on the anti-Facebook side of the argument though. Benefits of
Facebook received a passing mention but dangers and problems were the primary
target. The author wants the reader to
remember that God’s Word is where are focus should be and not reading mundane
posts (or tweets) about dinner, etc.
That memorizing verses from the Bible is essential. And I agree with all of that. But if you go on my facebook news feed, you
will see Bible verses. You will see
prayer requests. You will see
announcements of what is happening in church, upcoming events, pictures of past
events, people encouraging each other, articles regarding Christianity and how
to talk with non-Christians about faith.
Yes, there are other things on my wall – some politics, funny stories
about my daughter or my pets. Sharing.
But also trying to shine God’s light? Absolutely.
The way the author described
concentrating on real life relationships almost made it sound like you should
forget about old relationships if there can’t be face to face contact. I’m sure that’s not what was meant, but that’s
how it sounded. I have a host of family
members that live in Alabama that I would not have as much contact with if it
wasn’t for Facebook. Facebook can bring
people together as well.
There are definite problems with
social media. But it can also be used
for the greater good, to spread and teach God’s Word. And if just one person finds Jesus through
something that is said on Facebook, I think it is worth it. With Facebook, as with everything else, you
just need to learn moderation.
** I need to add that I received this book free from Cross Focused Reviews in exchange for writing a fair review.**
