By Lushomo Hamukoma
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:14-16, ESV
We are living in an exciting time digitally speaking. Did you know that there are nearly 4.54 billion active internet users? Or that on average we spend 6 hours and 42 minutes online everyday?
‘Why is this exciting?’ you may ask. Because we can easily reach out to people with the hope of Jesus that lives within us, all without having to leave the comfort of our rooms.
Have you found yourself wondering how to share your faith online? I’ve put together a short list that may help you in doing so.
Tip 1 – Get Creative
Before you freak out. Being creative does not require you to have an extensive knowledge of design.
One of the key things I hear from people when it comes to creating content (content can be an image, a video, a piece of writing) is that they simply aren’t creative. Well, Genesis 1:1 tells us that God created the heavens and the earth and further goes on to say that we are created in His image. For a moment, just picture the earth and all that it holds. Each entity is so unique and distinctive. The same God that created us is the same God that lies as our source of creative inspiration.
Being creative does not have to be complicated. There are a number of apps (Pinterest,) to help you get creative. If you’re a bit more old school, being creative can look like an image that has caught your eye.
Tip 2 – Be You ( Share Your Story )
Jeremiah 1:5 tells us that even before God formed us in the womb he knew and set us apart.
This same principle applies when we are reaching out online. As mentioned previously, the people on your friends/followers list are friends with you because of you (to put it simply). They want to hear your story and perspective on things.
The most powerful tool and one that I find working time and time again is being able to share our stories.
There’s only one you. Within your story could lie the breakthrough that someone else may need to get through the day, week or month. For example, picture a moment where you turn to the bible and are suddenly filled with peace because of what you’ve read. The steps you’ve taken to do this can then be shared with your followers.
Tip 3 – Pick a platform
Do you like taking pictures?
Are you more of a writer?
Do you like to keep things short and simple?
There are a host of platforms that cater to preference. You might find yourself overwhelmed with choice. Picking and establishing your platform will give you focus and allow you to gain confidence before dipping into other platforms.
Tip 4- Plan Plan Plan
There isn’t one way to go about running your platforms. However, planning what you would like to post will not only help keep you organised but also allow you to gauge what is working and what isn’t working.
Once you’ve followed the first three things, you’ll find yourself getting into your own groove. For the days that you feel you are running out of steam your plan will keep you on track.
Tip 5 – Have Fun
Rejoice in the lord always ; again I will say, Rejoice Philippians 4:4-8
My final tip for you is to have fun as you reach out. Whatever that ends up looking like.
