Have you ever watched a movie trailer and gotten super excited to see the movie, only to be let down by the actual film? I know that I have. But where exactly does the disappointment come from? Most likely, we are dissatisfied because as the movie plays out it in no way lives up to the highlights that we were introduced to in the trailer. The movie, simply put, did not live up to our expectations.
Does social media have you dissatisfied with your season of life? Let’s face it, social media outlets are everywhere. Even if we tried, it would be impossible to get away from their influence. There is not a single aspect of our lives that is not affected by some form of social media. But, are these social media outlets doing US more harm than good? That is an important question that I feel that God is asking us to ask ourselves. Personally, I enjoy social media.I especially enjoy the ability that it affords me to remain in contact with family and friends. As I follow friends and family, I get to view a highlighted reel of great events, successes, and accomplishments. I get excited as I see the people that I know and love enjoying life and all that it has to offer.
To be completely transparent, as excited as I am for the great things that are happening to those around me, there is an opposite reaction that often takes place in my mind and heart. My excitement, often times, turns to envy, covetousness, jealousy, and disappointment. Emotions that I believe strike at the at the hearts of many as they begin to compare their lives and circumstances to the movie trailer that is presented by so many on social media. For some, the dissatisfaction comes as a fleeting thought, and nothing more. For others, it is an ever present struggle that has to be fought and battled on a daily basis. Unfortunately, for many, thoughts of comparison become overwhelming, leading them into depression and despair.
The above picture is one taken at the lake on a recent family vacation. It reminds me of the many posts that I see with hash tags such as “my current view.” While I was vacationing and enjoying the spectacular view on the lake, I was also very cognizant that this photo by no means tells the complete story of my “current situation.” Yes, the water appears relaxing, yes, the scenery is breathtaking, and yes, the environment gives an illusion of peace and tranquility, but the truth is that the current season of my life is neither. This is my highlighted reel. Beautiful, but very deceiving especially if it is being used by others as a source of comparison.
You see, the truth of the matter is that I will probably spend very little time in this peaceful environment, my scenery is not breathtaking, and I am not walking in a position of peace and tranquility. I know, some may be thinking, you are to be content with your circumstances. I am aware of scripture and what it commands. I am aware that I should count it all joy, have peace, and walk in contentment, but I would be lying if I said that I did. I continue to be a work in progress in this area.
In order for you to properly assess my reel, more information would definitely be necessary. I look a little more like a wife who never meets all of the needs of her husband, a mother and grandmother who always falls short, an only child struggling to take care of her mom who never makes the grade. The highlighted version of my life is deceptive by omission to say the least. My “reel” life looks nothing like the highlight.
Do NOT be tempted to compare your life to the trailers presented on social media. If you do, the enemy will surely ensnare you! The season that you are currently walking through may be a difficult one, but hold on, you are not alone. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
Be encouraged! Just as winter turns into spring, spring turns into summer, and summer into fall, so to do the seasons of our lives. God knew that we would get discouraged so he gave us these promises: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to dies; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-10) God will make everything beautiful in its’ time! (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
As you await the changing seasons of your life with anticipation, approach social media with the knowledge that you are only seeing highlights. Do not be tempted to compare yourself to others. Remain aware of the big picture! Remember that what you are seeing may in many ways be deceptive by omission. Glean the beauty of social media. Enjoy your friends and family, but, in doing so, never forget that “All That Glitters is Not Gold!” Be eager to embrace YOUR reel. It may not always seem good, but it will always be worth it!
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