Isaiah 65:17
"For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind."
Let us consider an unconventional topic, something that
seems more suited for science fiction than Christian devotionals. Yet, in our
rapidly changing world, it is a subject that demands our attention – the role
of Artificial Intelligence and technology in furthering the Kingdom's work and
ministry.
The scriptures teach us, "Behold, I am doing a new
thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the
wilderness and rivers in the desert." (Isaiah 43:19)
Indeed, God is doing a new thing, using every medium,
technology and tool to spread the Gospel, and we need to be perceptive to His
movement. Let us not be like the children of Israel who failed to understand
God's active presence in their lives.
Artificial Intelligence, also known as AI, is a
revolutionary technology that has already started reshaping many sectors,
including healthcare, education, and business. But can it apply to the ministry
and Kingdom's work? The answer is a resounding yes!
First, let us understand God gave us the intelligence to
create AI, and thus, it is a gift to be used wisely. The same divine wisdom
that led Solomon to understand nature (1 Kings 4:33) has allowed humans to
create AI. It is a testament to our God-given potential.
Through AI, we can extend our ministry beyond physical
boundaries, languages, and time zones, reaching out to the lost and
broken-hearted at any time of the day. A virtual prayer assistant, for
instance, can lead someone in prayer when they desperately need it, even if
there is no human available at that moment. Scripture-based AI chatbots can
guide people in their walk with God, providing answers to pressing spiritual
questions based on the Bible.
Technology can hasten the spread of God's Word like never
before. Today, digital Bibles, sermons, and Christian literature can be
accessed by anyone, anywhere with an internet connection, making the Great
Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) more workable than ever. We can study and find verses
at the press of a button or even a voice command, as our Father did before us.
However, while using technology for Kingdom's work, let us
not forget the importance of personal relationships and human touch in sharing
God's love. Jesus ministered to people personally and we should follow His
example.
Let me remind you, as we embrace AI and technology, we must
remain rooted in our faith and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. For it is
not the technology, but the power of God and His Word that transforms lives.
Finally, as we venture into this new realm, let us pray for
divine wisdom to use AI and technology effectively for Kingdom's work, while
preserving the essence of our faith. As the scriptures say, "If any of
you lack wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach,
and it will be given him." (James 1:5)
May we, as the Church, stay open to the new things God is
doing, embracing the advancements of the time without losing sight of our
mission. Because in the end, it is all about extending God's Kingdom and
glorifying His name. May God bless us all as we navigate these exciting yet
challenging times.
P.S. Let us remember the power of human connection as we
navigate these advancements. As illustrated in 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, without
love, even the most progressive technology is nothing.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Creator of all wisdom and knowledge, we come before You today to lift up the technology of artificial intelligence and those contributing to it and using it in their lives.
We thank You for the gift of creativity and innovation you have given us, and we humbly acknowledge that every good thing we create reflects Your divine design. As we find ourselves in this era of artificial intelligence, we pray for discernment, wisdom, and guidance.
We ask that You cover every aspect of this technology with Your Holy Spirit. May privacy, safety, truth, and moral issues be addressed under Your divine intervention. Let this technology be used to advance the kingdom of God, to bring comfort to the afflicted, knowledge to the ignorant and hope to the hopeless.
We pray that our hearts and minds remain in You as we engage and interact with this technology. Help us, Lord, to use it for your glory, and not for selfish ambitions or harmful intentions.
In all things, let Your will be done. Hold our hands and guide us in this journey. Above all, help us to keep our eyes fixed on You, amid rapid technological advancements. In Jesus' name. Amen.