From Edie: Social media is constantly changing, but it still matters. Discover why writers should keep showing up online and how it can support their calling.
Why Writers Should Keep Using Social Media in a Changing Digital World
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
Let’s face it—social media takes a lot of hard knocks and gathers a good bit of bad press.
And honestly? Some of it is deserved.
Algorithms change. Platforms come and go. AI is everywhere. Feeds are crowded. Attention spans are shorter. And for writers, it can feel like just one more chore on an already overstuffed to-do list.
I know I’m guilty of thinking about the drudgery of doing it, even as I acknowledge the necessity.
But just like almost anything we have to do—or even love to do—there are good parts and bad parts.
So today, instead of talking about what’s broken, what’s frustrating, or what’s changing (again), let’s focus on the good parts.
Because even in 2026, social media still has real value—especially for writers.
11 Reasons For Writers to Keep Using Social Media
1. I can reach more people than ever before.
With the internet—and especially social media—I can connect with more people than I ever could in the past. Even with algorithm changes, the potential reach is still incredible. It’s easy to overlook this advantage, but it’s something that should keep us moving forward when we get tired.
2. I can help others without leaving my desk.
I can offer encouragement through a comment, a prayer, a resource, or a practical link. Many of the ways I used to help others in person can now happen online—without the barrier of distance.
3. It gives me a wider perspective.
I live in the South, in the United States. Without social media, my definition of “normal” would be pretty narrow. But now I have friends and connections across the country and around the world. Those relationships have broadened my horizons and shaped how I see people, writing, and ministry.
4. I can share my message quickly.
If I have something to say, I can share it immediately. Whether it’s a blog post, a devotional thought, or an announcement, I don’t have to wait for a newsletter or an event. I can connect in real time.
5. I can build relationships regardless of location.
Social media has helped me reconnect with old friends, stay in touch with new ones, and even form meaningful relationships with people I’ve never met in person. Some of those connections have turned into real-life friendships, collaborations, and ministry opportunities.
6. It pushes me beyond my comfort zone.
Social media is a world that grows with momentum. If I’m consistent about connecting, my circle widens. If I’m not, it shrinks. As an introvert, this has been good for me. It has gently nudged me to reach out beyond my inner circle—both online and in my local community.
7. It forces me to clarify my message.
We live in a world of short posts, captions, and quick videos. That can be frustrating—but it also forces me to get clear about who I am, what I write, and why it matters. That clarity helps not only my social media presence, but also my speaking, teaching, and writing.
8. It gives me new skills—and confidence.
Social media requires a wide range of skills: writing, visuals, video, audio, timing, and strategy. Learning these things has reminded me that I’m not too old—or too behind, or too overwhelmed—to grow. Every new skill is another reminder that growth is still possible.
9. It helps me practice kindness and restraint.
Watching the negative behavior of others online has made me more mindful of my own tone. Social media has become a daily reminder to follow the golden rule and treat others the way I’d like to be treated—both online and off.
10. It has expanded my definition of community.
I grew up believing my community consisted only of people who lived nearby. Now I know better. My community includes people I share life with—sometimes in person, sometimes online. Both are real. Both matter.
11. It has deepened my sense of calling.
Many of us feel that God has given us a unique purpose. Social media has expanded the reach of that purpose. Where once He used me to reach a small group in my community, now He can use me to reach people around the world.
Yes, God could do that without social media. But He is also choosing to use these tools—and we get to be part of that.
We can (and often do) talk about how exhausting social media can be. And sometimes it is.
But isn’t it nice to stop and remember how it can also be a blessing?
What positive things have you experienced through social media? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
TWEETABLE
She and husband Kirk have been married 44+ years with three grown sons and four grandchildren. They live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and can often be found with their big black dog hiking the mountains.
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