Let’s have a Conversation about Conversation Part 5 by Ps Michael Podhaczky

You do know that you can make a positive difference while using communication technology. In light of this, let’s look at some of the personal and social implications of correctly using this  technology. Remember, for many the communication technology is a social lifeline, allowing opportunities to engage with friends and keep up-to-date. Therefore, it is an important place where you can make a difference in the lives of those that you interact with. Let’s look at a few practical and helpful ways to live as a resident of the Kingdom of light (Col 1:12-14).

a.    Online

·     Think about what is a safe amount of personal information to put on public forums, keeping in mind that people you do not know may see it.

·      Consider that people often use the internet as a way to hide their true identity. Therefore, be wise about who you interact with.

·    Only click on links that you know are safe. If you accidentally open spam, junk mail, pop-ups, mistype web addresses etc, shut down the link as quickly as possible, and tell a trusted friend, parent, and teacher etc., who can give account for your actions.

b.    Netiquette

·     Behave consistently, whether online or offline. Keep in mind that God is interested in your interactions, and can help you to conduct yourself in a way that is motivated by kindness and love.

c.    Bullying

·      Do not bully others; rather be tender hearted and Christlike.

·    If you are experiencing bullying, or know of someone else who is, notify someone, a parent, teacher, pastor, etc. Do not bother replying to bullies, rather pray for them.

·    Any insults, threats, harassment or stalking are against the law and maybe recorded by your ISP (Internet Service Provider, e.g. BigPond), for later investigation by the police if necessary. You may want to tell someone you trust if you are being bullied.

d.    Social Network Sites

·       Keep your privacy settings high, especially with sites like Facebook.

     Social Network Sites can be used to post information about yourself, display photos and tell others what you have been up to. They can also be used to make a difference in the lives of those that you chat with daily.

·     Social Network Sites are a great way to stay in touch with friends and family. Let’s use them wisely.

You can make a difference by the way that you communicate. Remember, as a resident of Kingdom of light, you have put on your new nature; you have been created to be like God, truly righteous and holy (Eph 4:24). So, be kind and tender hearted, freely forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has freely forgiven you (Eph 4:17-32).