"We should keep on encouraging each other to be thoughtful and to do helpful things." —Hebrews 10:24

"Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do." —Proverbs 10:12  

Cyberbullying is an ever-increasing issue among teens. In context, bullying is generally defined as habitually badgering and intimidating someone deemed weaker. A bully's behavior includes repeated, willful attempts to cause injury, harass, or embarrass. Cyberbullying utilizes similar actions through electronic transmission of threatening, intimidating, or defaming material. 

What exactly is a digital footprint?

A digital footprint is used to describe the trail of information or “footprints” a person leaves in online settings. Any information shared online can possibly live on the world-wide-web forever, even if the user removes the post. It is now a common practice for colleges, coaches, and employers to search social media and the internet for information on potential prospects prior to offering acceptances or making hiring decisions.

In Matthew 16:26, Jesus said, "What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" In today's social media culture, people tend to focus on the excitement of sharing their life experiences with everyone without thinking about exactly how that affects their personal privacy. For that reason, it is important for all users to set up privacy settings on their devices and social media apps in order to protect themselves from exposure to the "world." 

People of all ages enjoy sharing photos and life updates via social media. It is a platform to communicate with family and friends about our daily lives. Many social media users post activities every day, not always thinking about who might be watching. Privacy settings may give a false sense of safety. There may be more at stake with every post.