Do not speak evil against one another, brothers and sisters…..There is one lawgiver and judge who is able to save and destroy. So who, then, are you to judge your neighbor? — James 4:11-12.
This biblical passage serves as a reminder against the human impulse to pass judgment. In our modern age, one of the most used outlets for this impulse is social media. People seem to feel free to criticize and judge at the drop of a hat, often shielded by a screen. My publisher’s request that its authors post online brings me face to face with this reality. I constantly witness the casual trashing of public figures and hear about young people freely criticizing their peers and friends.
It is easy to point a finger at the platforms themselves, but social media is not at fault. AI or some robot is not posting these judgments or speaking evil; it is we, the users. The technology is merely a mirror, reflecting and amplifying the darkest parts of human nature. It removes the face-to-face friction and the immediate consequences that might otherwise restrain, giving rise to an illusion of impunity. This digital mask allows us to forget that there is a human being, a “neighbor,” on the other side of the screen.
The true challenge is not to abandon social media, but to change our approach. The responsibility lies with us to bring light into this digital space. It is up to us to infuse every word we type and every thought we share with love and care. We must consciously resist the urge to pass judgment and instead choose to build up, to encourage, and to show kindness. When we post, let it be an act of grace. When we respond, let it be with compassion. It is in our hands to transform these outlets of hate into channels of love.
Good idea, but there exist in this world some individuals whom I cannot forgive, and in fact despise.
I leave it to James.
Thanks, Webb, for the penetrating and compelling reminder! Great stuff. It takes courage and strength to to make the change/difference.
Thanks so much. Means a great deal. W.