The Christian Humblebrag

by Lesley on October 18, 2012 · 5 comments

in christianity,social media

I’m over at Christianity Today’s Blog for Women talking about the Christian Humblebrag. Between you and I, the title they chose is a little too snarky for my liking, but other than that I’m happy with the way the piece turned out and I’m enjoying the discussion in the comment area. I just want to say thank you to Tammy and Katie for taking time to edit my piece and give their wise opinions before it went live. The editors over at CT are also fabulous, but I love getting feedback from good friends who know my heart.

Though I still have limited experience seeing my words published, the hardest part is when people disagree with my arguments, especially when they are uncivil in their responses. (I’m a first born people pleaser, that’s for sure.) Sometimes it takes everything for me to not respond. I want to say, “Did you not read the whole article?” or, “You’re missing the main point!” or “Can’t you just be a little nicer in the way you express yourself?!?”

I’ve talked to numerous people about my fear of criticism, especially when it is down right mean and nasty. The Redbud gals were very sweet to me this morning when I expressed my fears. They reminded me that I need to trust God because if HE gave me the words, I have nothing to fear. Also, sometimes if you don’t make people a little angry, you may not have been honest enough. :)

All that to say, I welcome your thoughts on how Christian rhetoric on social media sites. Hop on over there and tell me what you think!

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Tabitha
Tabitha

Oh my gosh! One of my friends on Facebook totally posted your article the other day and I didn't even look at the author's name to realize it was you! That is so great. And it is a wonderful article I really needed. :-)

David
David

I enjoyed your article here after reading your excellent post on Her.meneutics. I find myself more and more trying to steer clear of discussing a lot on how I'm doing when posting to FB or TWitter, etc. Rather, I keep my posts vocation-related: promoting or discussing a book, c critique group, publishing opportunity, etc. Or, I'll post a song from Youtube or the like. I had to make this change because, when posting everything I did--from wiping my table to wiping the hari from my eyes, et al, I began disclosing my feelings with the edge of venting. That's not cool when letting friends of friends of friends see my life's details. Of course, in true Christian freedom, we can post what we want--sometimes repenting later. Yet, in either case, our Lord through His Word grants us forgiveness when we misspeak or misspost, etc.

Sarah
Sarah

i wish i had the brain capacity for a more thoughtful note, but i just want you to know that i disagree with one thing: i love the title. also, you're a thoughtful writer. you're sensitive to multiple perspectives even when you take a stand. so if someone disagrees, it's more likely a reaction based on their own experiences -- isn't that part of your role as a writer? to create art that gets people to react? i say, job well done.

Tim
Tim

Great article. Left a comment there. Don't let the critics get you down; they don't know you like God knows you. Tim

Alyssa
Alyssa

I thought your post was so great, Lesley. When it comes to calling out social media habits, people tend to get defensive. But in an age when it is all too easy to blur the lines between social media and real life, reflection on our true motives for sharing online is very important.