PROPER CONDUCT MATTERS
Phil 1:27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel NIV
I watched a film sometimes ago. There was a young man who had an altercation with a woman in traffic. He abused this woman and called her unprintable names.
After sometime, this young man fell in love with a lady. Their relationship blossomed and they decided to marry each other. As the custom is, both of them decided to introduce each other to their families.
When this lady took her fiancé home to meet her mother, her mother recognized him as the man who insulted her in traffic. The woman concluded that her daughter won't marry that young man.
His public conduct stood against him where it matters most. She knew he wouldn't do better in marriage because the smoke of his character was visible.
Recently, I became so concerned about how believers conduct themselves in the public especially on social media. The words, the comments and expression of some persons drew my attention.
The privilege of internet access has made many to forsake the Christian virtue of respect and proper conduct. It is appalling to read posts filled with hate, disrespect and bile against elders and fathers in the faith from Christians.
Where the boldness to write such comes from is unexplainable but surely it is not from God. This untoward attitude is common among the young, believers inclusive.
Social media shouldn't make you lose your virtues as a believer. Don't hide behind keypad to type comments or replies you wouldn't be bold to say If you are privileged to meet the person physically.
You may not be able to say a word If you were to physically meet most of those whom you disrespect on social media. How you behave on the space called social media speaks volumes about you.
You may say it doesn't matter, but as they say, "Internet never forget." Sometimes, we can adjudge you as rude, uncouth and disrespectful by checking your posts and replies on social media.
That you don't share the same view or agree on an issue with someone doesn't mean you should use insulting words in responding to their views. Learn to read and ignore certain posts.
Maturity is knowing you don't have to comment on everything online. Why should you be proud of cyber bullying and taking friends to the cleaners because you disagree on a few things? Think about friends and opportunities you've lost because of this.
Some have lost great opportunities because of how they portray themselves publicly on social media. Dear sister, maybe your suitor lost interest because of your last post on Facebook. Watch it.
Your prospective employer may be searching your social media handles and account to see If there's anything that disqualify you. Be wise.
The biblical counsel which reads "Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ" is not a counsel for onsite interaction, it cuts across.
Don't be a good Christian when we see you physically but uncouth and disrespectful when you're online. Access to internet bundle shouldn't make you jettison basic Christian ethics and values.
It pays to be Christlike onsite and online.
Adjust where necessary.