This story demonstrated the immense power of online media.  It could be rightly used to reach out to a massive audience in a very short time.  More often than not, however, gossips or negative reports spread faster and wider, regardless of their credibility.  The use of online media and internet technology can only make situations worse and even more uncontrollable.  The Bible says, “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts”  (Pro 18:8).  We are easily captivated by gossips.  They let loose our wild imagination, satisfy our curiosity on others’ private life, and our pride.  As gossips or certain messages spread around, falsehood seeps in and the actual account of a particular matter becomes murkier.  With social media becoming more popular, it becomes easier for gossips or rumours to spread.  By a simple click on the “Share” or “Like” icons, sensitive private information could be instantly sent to recipients who should not have access to them.  As sharing of information is now easy, we must be extra careful especially when the subject matter involves private information.  Otherwise, knowingly or unknowingly, we end up joining the ranks of gossipmongers.  Moreover, it is sometimes difficult to ascertain the reliability of information on the internet.  Sometimes, certain accounts of incidents spreading online may be just opinions from individuals and do not necessarily tell what truly happened.  We need to be mindful of these and stay away from spreading of rumours or half-truths.

For this, one needs to filter and judge wisely whatever information or messages he receives: “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps” (Pro 14:15).  We need to be sure of their credibility, if they are outdated, and the motive of the person disseminating the messages.  This is needful especially if they concern important matters.  If they are about something trivial, I suggest that we do not waste our time consuming such information.

The Bible says, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Eph 4:29).  We should be concerned about whether or not what we say online brings edification to others.  In the news that I mentioned earlier, the brave act of kindness that the lady displayed is really commendable.  However, her shaming of the male passenger who refused to give up seat on the internet implicitly made her a rightful judge to judge others.  Such act of “internet vigilantism” is quite common nowadays.  To punish the “offender” in this manner, however, is counterproductive.  It may even bring hurt to people close to the “offender.”  We should not condone such behaviour.  Do not “Share” or “Like” them.  Whether online or not, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Gal 4:6)