How can Proverbs 12:23 guide our conversations in a social media context? Key Verse “A shrewd man keeps his knowledge quiet, but the heart of fools proclaims folly.” – Proverbs 12:23 The Voice of Wisdom in a Noisy World • Scripture treats restraint as a mark of shrewdness—real insight doesn’t have to announce itself. • Online platforms reward rapid, public reactions; Proverbs calls believers to measured, private discernment. Why Oversharing Online Mirrors Folly • Every post immortalizes words; folly today can resurface tomorrow (Proverbs 18:7). • Emotional venting can masquerade as authenticity yet reveal a “foolish heart” instead of godly transparency. • Likes and shares tempt us to value visibility over wisdom (Proverbs 29:11). Practical Guidelines for Posts and Comments Stay Silent When… • motives lean toward self-promotion instead of service (Matthew 6:1). • knowledge is partial, unverified, or secondhand (Exodus 23:1). • the discussion is already heated; “everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19). Speak Up When… • truth needs gentle clarification (Ephesians 4:15). • encouragement will build another up (Ephesians 4:29). • the gospel can be shared without compromise or quarrel (2 Timothy 2:24-25). Guarding the Heart Behind the Screen • What fills the heart eventually fills the feed (Luke 6:45). • Regular private study and prayer fuel wisdom, reducing the urge to chase online approval (Psalm 119:11). • Accountability—inviting a trusted believer to review controversial drafts—adds a safeguard. Words That Build Rather Than Boast Choose content that is… • True – fact-checked, Scripture-aligned (Philippians 4:8). • Necessary – not every opinion needs publishing (Proverbs 17:27-28). • Gracious – seasoned with salt, giving grace to those who hear (Colossians 4:6). A Quick Checklist Before Hitting “Post” 1. Does this reveal godly wisdom or personal ego? 2. Will it edify, instruct, or point to Christ? 3. Am I prepared for this statement to outlive me? 4. Have I prayed and paused long enough to answer in love? Living Proverbs 12:23 Online Silence isn’t weakness; it can be spiritual strength. When believers resist the impulse to parade knowledge, they highlight the sufficiency of Christ, reflect the fruit of self-control, and let God’s wisdom—not digital noise—shape the conversation. |
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