As an aspiring author, I thought it would be ideal to remain anonymous and use a cool pseudonym. After attending a writers’ conference, I learned publishers were not so keen on that idea. Apparently, they want as many people as possible to know the author’s name, and having an online presence, including social media, was where the author should start.

Now that I’ve entered the once frightening Facebook world, I’ve found I need an extra dose of wisdom to know when to speak and when to keep silent. Many ‘behind-the-screen’ commenters quickly turn vicious and combative, especially when we take a stand for godly principles. Hmm … what to do?

By watching Jesus in the gospels, we observe remarkable self-control. He was able to remain still or respond calmly to insults, snide questions, and false accusations. Other times He returned a brutal volley with an appropriate, strong rebuke, setting the record straight.

Our dilemma is knowing when to speak, and if we do, what to say. We need discernment and wisdom that only come from the Lord. We must pause, being cautious not to spew a knee-jerk reaction. We need to pray, taking time to listen with an open heart. And then, if led to respond, do so with a respectful tone.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven” … “a time to be silent and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7b). “The (person) of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a (person) of understanding is even-tempered” (Proverbs 17:27). So, as we continue to ‘socialize’ online, may our mouths speak, or our fingers type, messages that are pleasing to the Lord or not ‘say’ anything at all.

Finally, to those of you who follow me on my anonymous blog at www.pointingtheway.live, “Surprise! I am Teresa J. Krager. 😉 It’s nice to finally meet/greet you! If you wish to learn more about me, visit www.teresakrager.com.