Revelation 1:12 (ESV) begins with the phrase “Then I turned to see the voice,” a phrase defining my own moment of understanding about who I am as a Christian in relation to
Him. He is the immediate and undeniable guiding voice of truth. I am but the receiver of truth with a commission to spread that truth through my own life and abilities.
As Christians we are called to follow Jesus, regardless of the circumstances around us. But today we are surrounded with technology fueled by an Internet which is fraught with hidden, sometimes dangerous temptations. But it is also filled with potential to both encourage and guide us. The key to successfully navigating all of this is discerning how we should proceed when we are faced with confusing and conflicting paths. Here we are dedicated to maximizing the blessing of technology by continually seeking “The Right Idea” of following the voice of Christ in this tech-focused world. We’ll be discussing both the everyday nuts and bolts of how do do that, and the overarching concepts which channel that discernment.
As Americans we’ve been blessed beyond the imaginations of our forefathers. But, those blessings come with many challenges. Today’s technology has the potential to enhance our lives as never before through unlimited communications and convenience. We’re going to explore the challenges in today’s connected culture and see if we can find some “right” answers about how to stay safe as we take advantage of the blessings in this brave new tech world.
Along the way we’ll be talking about the mechanics of using specific solutions with specific equipment and software platforms. For example, I’ve recently acquired a low-priced Chromebook which is a good example of a “cloud” connected computer which is much more capable than you’d expect it to be from its modest technical specifications. The low price point is achieved because it leverages the power of those big, powerful computers in the “cloud” to do most of the computing via a simple browser connection.
Mobile phones are another example of cloud-connected technology which is even more dependent on always having an internet connection. Most of us carry smartphones around in our pockets or purses as a matter-of-fact necessity. Every time we absentmindedly send a text or check our email, we are using “the cloud,” even though we may not fully understand what “the cloud” really is.
Computers, smartphones, streaming entertainment, digital cameras and many more peripheral “gadgets” may be the focus of a particular blog post, but the overarching focus in all of it is “The Right Idea” of following Christ through all this technological confetti. And we welcome you to join us in seeking the blessings here in our attempt to navigate and use technology through the guiding voice of Jesus Christ.