Living out your faith authentically in a digital world can feel challenging, but it’s not impossible! Start by being mindful of what you post and share online—make sure it reflects your personal values and doesn’t contribute to negativity (because there is already so much of that in the world!). Your actions on social media are a representation of who you are and what you believe. Use your online presence to spread kindness, encouragement, and positivity, and engage in conversations that align with your faith and what you believe. 

It can be easy to get sucked into the social media spaces, but remember to take time for daily spiritual practices, like prayer or Bible reading. Balance your screen time with time offline, connecting with others and fostering those relationships. Don’t be afraid to speak up when you see injustice or harmful behavior online, but always do so with respect and empathy, remembering that there is a real person with real emotions behind the screen. Lastly, remember that God calls you to be a light in the world—who you are online can be a powerful way to show others His love!

Lt. Valentina Agudelo, Brooklyn, NY

How do I find joy in the little things? (Chores, daily routine, homework, etc.)

It’s easy to go on autopilot and just “do” life—cycling through daily tasks every day. Doing this, we tend to overlook the moments of joy that God provides throughout the day. I’ve learned that in order to find joy in the little things of life, I must look for them. I must be intentional in finding joy even in the mundane. Sitting in traffic, shopping in the grocery store, cleaning the house, and walking the dog all contain pockets of joy when we intentionally look for them. Above all, look for Jesus. That is where the joy is and will always be found.

Captain Malaika Good, Aiken, SC

How can I discern what media to watch that’s beneficial for my spiritual growth?

Whether it is art, music, news, books, or social media, we are being influenced by what we consume. Discerning what to watch, listen, or read is vital to spiritual growth. First, not everything labeled Christian is a good source. Take a few minutes with any source of media to research who is writing, funding, and producing it. Solid sources of media will be transparent about their beliefs and standards. Second, test your media sources against scripture, church tradition, experience and reason! This is called the Wesleyan Quadrilateral and helps us to know that what we are using for spiritual growth is biblically sound. Third, listen to the Spirit’s conviction. As you grow spiritually, you will grow to hear the Spirit’s voice more clearly, telling you what to avoid and what to consume.

Captain Jaclyn Holloway, Chicago, IL