Article April 3, 2017 Issue

Spiritual identity in a digital age

Jeffrey Plum

Social media have become an integral part of daily life for people all over the world. Many value how social media enable them to stay in touch with friends and family. Social media also make it easier for us to closely follow the personal narratives of others, which may leave us wondering how we measure up if we compare ourselves and our accomplishments to people we follow online.

These narratives that people give on social media often include personal biographical details such as their job title, age, dating status, and personal history, and these narratives can also draw attention to a person’s physical appearance. This kind of worldly assessment of someone may inform us about them on a superficial, merely human level, but it misses the mark in knowing someone’s spiritual identity and individuality, as God has made them.

Often our deepest yearning is simply to know our worth in God’s eyes. And God’s knowledge of us, as His spiritual creation, is entirely separate from the material assessment we see so often on social media. As we gain a deeper sense of worth as the beloved offspring of our Father-Mother God, we become freer from feelings of jealousy, disappointment, anger, and pride, and this understanding brings a spiritual peace and satisfaction to our hearts that heals and transforms.

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