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Technology is simply the practical application of knowledge. It should be the desire of every missionary to practically
apply the knowledge with which God has blessed them. Through the deputation process the missionary should seek to use the
technologies available to present the ministry which God has given them in the most compelling way possible. Their video
presentation should be sharp and their printed materials should be attractive, whether it be their prayer cards, brochure,
or newsletter. The missionary will need to make contact with many churches to gain the support necessary to do the work that
God has given to him. Many may be able to keep all of that straight with a pencil and notebook, but some may be able to be
more effective by using a computer database. If the missionary has that knowledge and can apply it then he should! Additionally,
in the world of deputation today, missionaries need an edge. They need to be able to get their message out in every way
imaginable. Many pastors today are computer savvy and a well designed website speaks volumes about a missionary and his desire
to get to the field. After he makes contact with a church getting to the meeting can be a much less stressful experience
with the aid of a GPS. It's a worthy investment if it allows the missionary to arrive at his destination with the soundness
of mind to present his burden clearly. All of these areas of the missionary's pre-field ministry can be improved and aided
by the technologies available today. The missionary should seek to use the tools available to make their deputation as effective
as possible.
Once the missionary family reaches the field one of the greatest struggles they will face is the shock that they will
experience as a result of being separated from their home. This effect can be greatly minimized if the missionary will use
the technologies available to stay connected with their friends and family back home. It is crucial that the missionary understand
the importance of staying connected. The cost of monthly internet access may be high where they serve but it's cheaper than
having to send another missionary. If having internet access allows that missionary family to beat culture shock and stay
on the field then it is well worth the investment.
Technology when used correctly has the potential to impact the missionary in a positive way. As missionaries we should
seek to use every tool available to make our work more effective and efficient, never forgetting the underlying principle
that should guide everything we do, "Whether therefore ye eat or drink or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."(16)
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