We hear the word algorithm everywhere these days. Social media platforms use it to decide what shows up in our feeds. Essentially, whatever we look at, linger on, or interact with is what we will continue to see.

There have been days when I’ve found myself in a negative, heavy, discouraged place after scrolling through Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. Part of me knows exactly which posts tend to drag my spirit down, yet sometimes, all it takes is three seconds of lingering, and suddenly my whole feed is filled with the same energy.

So I began asking myself a simple question: What’s in my algorithm? And even deeper, what’s in my heart?

There is real neurological research that suggests our thoughts, surroundings, and the people we spend time with physically shape our brain’s pathways. I won’t get all scientific, but the idea itself is fascinating. Your inputs become your outputs.

Scripture said it long before modern science did:

"As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." Proverbs 23:7
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

This past summer, after reading and watching about a series of heartbreaking tragedies happening around the country, I felt my own mind and heart becoming heavy. I wasn’t doing well emotionally, and I knew I needed to step back from social media. When I returned, I made a choice: change the input. Change the algorithm.

I intentionally searched for Christian leaders I trust, such as Joyce Meyers, Havilah Cunnington, and Christine Caine. I watched their videos, engaged with their posts, and almost instantly, my feed shifted. And so did my spirit.

I regrettably had to update my friends list. It’s difficult to unfriend people you genuinely care for and like, but what they consistently posted clashed with my values, my peace, and my walk with Christ. It’s easy to forget that you can love someone deeply and still not give their voice access to your daily mental space. (Read that again.) I want my beliefs to come from Scripture, prayers, my own experiences, and the Holy Spirit, not from an algorithm shaped by outrage, fear, or pressure.

A leader in my mom and dad’s church asked his congregation if they pray before posting. That hit me hard, because in the past, I definitely hadn’t. His point was powerful. You might get a few likes or hearts, but what if that post costs you the chance to minister to someone who needed your love more than your opinion?

When people look at my social media, I want them to know, without a doubt, that I follow Jesus. Listen, I’m not perfect. I’ve posted things I regret. I can be passive-aggressive, sarcastic, or quick to react, but I’m learning that spiritual maturity includes emotional maturity, and sometimes that looks like pausing before posting.

So check your algorithm. Search for things that bring life, faith, and encouragement. Follow people that you truly trust. Be honest with yourself when your feed starts drifting back into negativity, and reset it.

Who you spend time with shapes how you see the world. Who you listen to shapes who you become.

Social media doesn’t have to be toxic. It can be a place of joy, connection, encouragement, and even ministry. But, only if we choose to steward it well.

It’s time to ask yourself: What’s my algorithm, and what’s it doing to my heart?