Founder's Reflections #15 | Sunday, November 17, 2024 | Jesus24365 Ministry | The Power of Discernment

The Power of Discernment 

Founder's Reflections #15: 🤔✨

Sunday, November 17, 2024 | Jesus24365 Ministry

Good afternoon, dear Jesus24365 family! 🙏✝️❤️🌟

🌟 Every day, I begin my morning with a chapter of Proverbs. Today is November 17th, so naturally, I’ve been reflecting on Proverbs 17. This chapter is a treasure trove of wisdom, offering us guidance on living with discernment, grace, and purpose in our modern world.

But here’s a challenge I faced recently: Many times when writing posts, I catch myself searching for examples or perspectives that would resonate with our community. AI can be a quick solution, even making up imaginary members of the Jesus24365 Ministry. The moment I realized this, I immediately stopped and asked myself: What Would Jesus Do?

The answer was clear. Jesus wouldn’t rely on a quick fix. He would turn to His people, to His community, and seek real-life examples. Anything less wouldn’t align with running Jesus24365 Ministry through the lens of WWJD or using good discernment. And that’s exactly what today’s letter is about—applying discernment in all we do.

So, as we dive into Proverbs 17, let’s embark on a journey together—a Call to Adventure to live out discernment, not just in big decisions but in everyday choices. Along the way, we’ll see how God refines us, teaching us to lean into His wisdom and return with lessons that can transform our lives and impact those around us.

What Would Jesus Do? Discernment in a Modern Age 🌍

We live in extraordinary times. Technology and AI have transformed how we communicate, work, and share the Gospel. But here’s the question we must ask ourselves: What levels do we embrace these new technologies?

🤖 I’ll be the first to admit, AI has been a blessing in my own ministry. It allows me to create more messages to Spread the Good News, Grow God’s Kingdom, and Serve the needy and poor than I ever could on my own. But here’s the challenge: Does this make the messages I share any less meaningful than a preacher standing on the corner, saving souls face to face?

J.K., a believer and IT expert (and a dear friend of mine 💻🙏), offers wisdom that helps us think this through:

“We, as Christians, should limit how we use technology when it comes to building up the body of Christ—particularly within the context of the local church. For instance, communication technology can certainly be a blessing, but most of it is not value-neutral. There are built-in assumptions about what is good or useful and how people should connect with each other. Some of those assumptions have the potential to undermine what God sees as good or useful. In general, we should operate under the principle of least mediation. That is, we should only use forms of mediated communication when it's absolutely necessary.”

Let’s Turn J.K.’s Words into Action

What do you think about J.K.’s perspective? He raises an important point: while technology is a blessing, it’s not always value-neutral. Have you noticed ways that certain tools or technologies shape how we interact or what we prioritize? Are there times when less mediation—more face-to-face, authentic connections—has made a difference in your faith journey?

Scroll down and share your thoughts! How do you balance using technology to build up the body of Christ while staying mindful of its potential challenges? Let’s learn from one another as we walk together in Christ.

The Gift of Wisdom: James 1:5 & Daniel 12:4 📖

The Bible reminds us of the importance of seeking wisdom in all things. As James 1:5 says:

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

This isn’t just about asking once—it’s a daily practice. And in today’s age, Daniel 12:4 reminds us:

“…many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.”

God has allowed knowledge to grow, giving us tools like AI and technology. But wisdom—the discernment to use these tools for His glory—comes only from Him.

Technology: A Servant or a Master? 🔥🤖

Pastor Craig Groeschel, a visionary leader, passionate communicator, and founder of Life.Church:

“Technology, like fire, is a useful servant but a dangerous master.”

This reminds me of the importance of discernment. Technology can serve God’s purpose beautifully when we use it wisely. As Rick Warren, a renowned pastor, author, and global influencer, encourages:

“The greatest communications tool God has ever given us is the internet, and we must use it to tell people about Jesus.” 🌐

WWJD: Choosing Discernment in Every Moment 🛠️

Discernment isn’t just for big decisions—it’s about the little ones, too. As Charles Spurgeon wisely said:

“Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right.”

Practical Applications for This Week 📋

1. Pause for Peace 🕊️:

• Respond calmly during moments of stress at work.

• Reflect on how your peace brings clarity and positively impacts others.

2. Forgiveness Practice ❤️:

• Identify an old hurt or workplace grudge.

• Write it down, pray over it, and release it, feeling God’s peace.

3. Growth Reflection 🌱:

• Think about a current challenge and how it’s refining your character.

• Write down ways this trial is helping you trust in God’s purpose.

Return with Wisdom: Your Call to Act ✍️

Now it’s your turn to act.

• Scroll down and leave a comment sharing your story or reflections on J.K.’s quote.

• Share this post with someone navigating similar questions, and let’s spark a deeper conversation.

Every comment and share helps Spread the Good News. Together, we amplify God’s message through this community of believers, leaning into His wisdom every step of the way.

For His Kingdom, 

Jeff ❤️

P.S. If this letter blessed you, I invite you to subscribe to Jesus24365 Daily. You’ll receive a free email every morning at 8 AM with a devotional to start your day with Christ. It’s my gift to you—a way we can grow in wisdom and discernment together, walking in Christ Every Moment, Every Day!

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