This post is one that addresses an issue that many have already addressed. This is my own personal musings and thoughts on social networking. Why have a blog? Why do I have Twitter account? Much of the Internet and especially social networking is an absolute waste of time! I am not a big fan of Facebook (although I do have an account), but I really do enjoy Twitter. I have never been a big blog guy, but I do see the value in having one. Below are four reasons why I personally like the possibilities of social networking…if done properly.

1.  To Influence – The one factor that has always kept me intrigued with blogs, Twitter, etc. has been the possibility of another avenue to influence. I love influence. I am a youth pastor today because someone influenced me! I could go through an extremely long list of people that have had a huge impact in my life and that will probably be another post, but the point is…I’ve been influenced by some great people! Those people have inspired me to influence others and to do so in a biblical way. Is it possible to influence someone through social networking or micro blogging? Of course it is! Everything we do can influence for good or bad! Every word you say, type, post, tweet has a good chance of influencing someone that is following and watching you. I have a two year old daughter, Alexis. The other day we were in the car and someone honked their horn. The next thing I heard came from the mouth of my innocent little two year old…”Go dude!” What a lesson I received from Lexi!!! I am influencing my little girl even when I do not think I am. Let us remember the admonition of Paul in 1 Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. I hope that in your home, ministry, and life you want to be one that influences in a way that is well-pleasing to the Lord!