Internet Trolls

Because social media is here to stay, Christians need to realize our comments on blog posts, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest pages are a reflection of our faith and maturity because "the mouth speaks what the heart is full of" (Luke 6:45).

When we write our comments, we're talking to real people. If we keep that in mind, we're less apt to get off subject and call people names. We must avoid Ad Hominum Disagreement.

It's so important that we read things carefully before leaving a comment (Proverbs 18:13), and accept correction if we're wrong about something (Proverbs 9:8). See The Sting of Correction.

Beware of Trolls

In addition to behaving like a Christian on social media, we should steer clear of debates with internet trolls. Trolls intentionally write arrogant, aggressive, repetitious comments. 

Experts warn us not to respond to them because they're not genuinely interested in discussion. Instead, they're empowered by offending people like the fools mentioned in Proverbs 26:4 who shouldn't be answered. See a Foolish Contradiction.

If we have strong convictions about non-essential doctrines, Bible translations, or popular authors, we'd be wise to stick to sites that express our views.

Perhaps the biggest irony is the judgmental way some folks use the phrase "Judge not." It may be the most misunderstood concept in Scripture. That's why I have a collection of 1-minute devotions called Misunderstandings About Judgement.

Dear Christians, let's behave on social media as Christians should behave, remembering that our words and thoughts should be pleasing to our Lord (Psalm 19:14).
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(1) Psychologists have different views about the cause of troll behavior, but they agree that trolls are typically bored and angry people who get a sick enjoyment and a feeling of power from leaving repetitive rude comments. They warn us not to debate them. (source)

This is certainly true from my experience. I have had several trolls target Bible Love Notes. I soon learned that they were not reasonable people. In fact, I believe a couple of them may be mentally ill. So I've taken advantage of the various blocking devices on social media and filters on my blog comments. These trolls may still be leaving comments, but I no longer have to read a single word. 

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