Episode Transcript
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[Music] Faith and Tech Bytes with Amy Lynn
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Today’s episode, Repeated Mistakes, explores a digital pitfall that can cost you, and how faith and mental health guide us to do better.
The digital world is full of laws, not just guidelines. For example, sending unsolicited cold emails, often called spam, can violate laws like the CAN-SPAM Act, even if your intentions are respectful. Businesses use contact forms to protect their email addresses from spam or breaches. Ignoring this can be costly (00:18):
you could lose your email account, domain, or face legal trouble. I don’t want that to happen to you, so let’s learn from these mistakes.
How does this connect to faith? The Bible, in Matthew 5:39, teaches us to turn the other cheek, but mental health experts remind us to set boundaries against abuse, like from a repeated liar or someone with cruel intentions. Saying ‘no more’ isn’t an eye for an eye; it’s wisdom. Proverbs 22:3 says, ‘The prudent see danger and take refuge.’ In technology and life, avoiding repeated mistakes means respecting boundaries and acting with integrity.
Here’s a tip (00:24):
Before emailing someone, check for a contact form. It’s a simple way to honor their privacy, just as you’d want yours respected. And if you’re stuck in a cycle of mistakes, lean on faith to break free.
Years ago, an Apple ad showed Zooey Deschanel asking Siri, “Is it raining?” while staring out a window clearly seeing and hearing it's raining. Funny, but it hinted at over relying on technology. Now, a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra ad has a woman asking AI if her clothes can go in the dryer, ignoring the tag’s clear label. The tagline? “A true AI companion.” I’d say it’s making us dumber by the day. As a programmer since age seven, I see AI’s potential, but leaning on it too much can weaken our critical thinking.
Spiritually, this matters. Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” AI can remind us to pray or read scripture, but only God guides our hearts. Over dependence on AI risks tuning out His voice for a machine’s.
If you are concerned about using AI too much maybe, pause before asking AI for answers. Check the label or your Bible first. Use technology to support faith, not replace wisdom. And please don't use AI for medical diagnoses of any kind, talk to your medical professionals instead.
The show today, How Technology Shapes Spiritual Lives, explores how our digital world can draw us closer to God or pull us away.
Ever feel like your phone steals more time than it gives? Technology connects us instantly, but it can disconnect us spiritually. Social media, for example, can inspire with faith filled posts, think a quick Psalm 23 reminder on social media, but it can also distract us with endless scrolling. Studies show we spend over 2 hours daily on social media, often replacing prayer or reflection. I don’t want that for you, and I bet you don’t it either.
So, how does technology affect your faith? It’s a tool, not a master. Apps like YouVersion bring the Bible to your fingertips, helping you meditate on verses like Philippians 4:8 (00:46):
“Whatever is true, noble, right, pure… think about such things.” But notifications? They can drown out God’s still, small voice. Constant noise makes it hard to hear Him. And let’s be real, comparison on social media can chip away at gratitude, pulling us from contentment in Christ.
Here’s the good news (00:48):
you can use technology intentionally. As previously suggested in another episode, set screen time limits to carve out space for prayer. Curate your feed to follow faith driven accounts that uplift you. Try a digital fast, maybe one technology free hour daily to refocus on God. These steps help technology serve your spiritual life, not sabotage it.
Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Let us plan our technology use to align with God’s purpose. Suggestion, pick one app this week say, a Bible app and use it for 10 minutes daily instead of scrolling. Watch how it shifts your focus.
Today, I'm talking about something kinda wild (00:55):
Can AI, yep, artificial intelligence, deepen your worship? Grab your coffee, and let’s dive in!
So, the other morning, I’m in my quiet time, flipping through Psalms, and I’m feeling a bit stuck. Ever have one of those days where the words just aren’t sinking in? I pulled out my phone and tried this AI tool called FaithGPT. I type in Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God,” and boom, it gives me a quick breakdown of the Hebrew, some historical context, and even a devotional prompt. Suddenly, I’m reflecting on God in a fresh way, and it leads me straight into prayer. I’m worshiping deeper because this tool helped me see God’s Word with new eyes.
Now, AI isn’t just for Bible study. I heard about a church using AI to create worship music, think chord progressions or even visuals for the sanctuary. It’s like a paintbrush for creativity, helping you set the stage for heartfelt worship. But here’s the deal (00:59):
AI’s a tool, not the star. John 4:23 says we worship “in spirit and truth.” AI can point us to truth, but the spirit part? That’s between you and God.
Here’s my caution, though, don’t let technology distract you. Like browser extensions slowing down your computer, AI can clutter your focus if you’re not intentional. Use it to enhance your connection to God, not replace it. Maybe try an AI app for prayer prompts or scripture meditation this week. Let it spark your worship, then put the phone down and lift your heart up. I'd also like to add that I know this episode may conflict with others I've shared. It's finding the balance with technology and our lives that's important to remember.
Our lives are stored on devices, photos of our kids’ first steps, contacts we rely on, even our calendars that keep us sane. But what happens when the unthinkable strikes? A phone crash, a stolen laptop, or a glitch that wipes everything. I come from an era of paper calendars and printed photos, tangible treasures I could hold. Sure, a fire or flood could destroy those too, but the point is, I learned early on (01:06):
don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
Here’s a pro tip (01:11):
back up your data regularly. Use cloud services like Google Drive or iCloud, or an external hard drive for peace of mind. Traveling? Email yourself important photos or documents as a quick backup. I’ve heard horror stories, like family members whose devices were wiped by airport security scanners in other countries. A simple backup could’ve saved their memories. Don’t let that be you.
Now, let’s pivot to faith. Just like we back up our digital lives, we need to ‘back up’ our spiritual lives. Think about it (01:15):
does anyone outside your home or social media bubble know about your faith? I’m not saying rent a billboard or shout it from the rooftops, unless that’s your thing! But, do you share your values in small, authentic ways? Maybe it’s a Bible verse in your Instagram bio, a kind word that reflects your beliefs, or a conversation with a friend about what faith means to you. Heck an emoji in your bio!
Your faith is a treasure, just like those photos. Back it up by living it openly, not for show, but to inspire and connect. When tough times hit, those ‘backups’, your community, your shared values, become your strength.
Proverbs 6 reminds us to be like the ant, wisely preparing for the future. Back up your digital treasures and your faith today to ensure they endure.
Ever feel overwhelmed by all your online accounts?
I’ve got dozens of logins (01:35):
email, banking, social media, you name it. Keeping track of passwords is a nightmare. I once spent hours resetting a forgotten password for an old account, only to realize it was comprised. Embarrassing, right? Cybersecurity experts say the average person juggles over 100 accounts in 2025. Weak passwords or reusing them across sites is like leaving your front door unlocked. You could use a password manager to keep track of everything, or write them down in a book. Simple steps like unique passwords or two-factor authentication build a digital fortress around your life.
Now, here’s the faith connection (01:38):
cybersecurity protects my temporary digital identity, but salvation secures my eternal soul. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus’s sacrifice is my spiritual fortress, guaranteeing eternal security no matter what life throws at me. Unlike a password I might forget, God’s promise of salvation never fails.
So, how do I live this out? In technology, I stay proactive (01:43):
updating software, avoid phishing links, and monitor my accounts. In faith, I trust in Jesus, pray daily, and lean on Scripture to strengthen my soul. Every time I lock down an account, it reminds me of God’s unshakeable promise.
Today, I'm taking a heartfelt turn to talk about words of comfort something we all need sometimes.
Our digital lives are always expanding new apps, new platforms, new ways to connect. But some things stay constant, like our need for comfort in tough times. Back in 2002, I was going through a dark season. I longed to hear a caring male voice say, ‘Everything is going to be okay.’ Female voices were there for me, but it just wasn’t the same. Even if those words weren’t guaranteed, I needed to hear them.
That longing stayed with me for years until God placed a vision on my heart (02:00):
creating a space, where people could find those words of comfort. That’s how purelysaid.com was born a website with recordings of soothing words, from ‘You are enough’ to ‘You are not alone.’ It’s grown beyond my wildest dreams, with TikTok videos, YouTube content, and resources on tough topics like abuse and depression.
This brings me to a verse that anchors everything I do (02:04):
Isaiah 40:1 (NIV) ‘Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.’ This scripture reminds us that God calls us to comfort each other, just as He comforts us. Purely Said is my way of answering that call, using technology to share words that heal. Whether it’s a short audio clip on the website or a video on social media, these tools amplify God’s love to those who are hurting.
Your faith can be a source of comfort too. When life feels overwhelming, lean into God’s promises and share them with others. A kind word, a shared verse, or even a simple ‘I’m here’ can be a lifeline.
So, if you’re feeling heavy hearted, visit purelysaid.com today. Explore the recordings, videos, and resources designed to remind you that you are not alone.
Today, I’m diving into a topic that hits hard (02:19):
Have You Been Breached? I mean those moments when your email, password, or even credit card information gets hacked. It feels like a digital gut punch. But there’s a faith connection here that brings hope, so stick with me.
Picture getting that email (02:22):
“Your account’s been compromised.” Heart sinks. In 2024, over 2.6 billion personal records were exposed worldwide. Billion! Hackers sneak through weak passwords or phishing scams. I’ve seen friends lose accounts or worse, their identity. Technology offers solutions
Now, the faith tie-in (02:30):
a data breach leaves you vulnerable, like someone’s invaded your life. Spiritually, I can feel breached too, when doubt, fear, or temptation creep in. Ephesians 6:16 says, “Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” Just as I secure my digital life with antivirus software, I shield my soul with faith. God’s my ultimate firewall, protecting me when life’s hackers, like stress or sin, try to break through.
So, what can I do? For technology, I update passwords, enable two factor authentication, and monitor accounts. For faith, I pray for discernment, read Scripture, and trust God’s protection. Next time a breach alert pops up, it reminds me (02:33):
God’s got me covered, no matter what sneaks in.
Let's explores how people use technology in creative ways to spread God’s love and connect with others.
Imagine sharing a Bible verse with thousands in seconds. Technology makes that possible. Take the Media Nuns, Daughters of St. Paul who use TikTok to reach 157,000 followers with Christ’s joy. Their fun videos, set to songs like Run DMC’s “It’s Tricky,” share faith in a fresh way. Or consider A Bible app, letting users share verses like John 13:34 “Love one another” right from their phones. These tools turn screens into mission fields.
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But it’s not just big platforms. You can create a faith based blog on WordPress, a Podcast, or host virtual prayer groups on Zoom to connect globally. Technology amplifies your voice for God’s glory.
Here’s a suggestion, this week, share one faith filled post on social media or text a Bible verse to a friend. Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not grow weary of doing good.” Let's use technology to do good today.
Today, I'm talking about something we all know too well (03:04):
losing stuff like your phone and the deeper journey of being lost and found by God.
Picture this (03:09):
you’re frantically searching for your phone. Pockets? Empty. Bag? Nothing. Then you remember “Find My Phone.” A few clicks, a ping, and there it is maybe under the couch. Relief washes over you. Another method if you have the ability is to call your phone or have your smart speaker do it for you. That technology is a lifesaver, right? But it got me thinking about a different kind of lost when we feel adrift in life, distant from God or our purpose.
In Luke 19:10, Jesus says, “The Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.” Just like we track a lost phone, Jesus pursues us. Maybe it’s doubt, stress, or sin pulling you off course. The good news? God’s love is relentless. In Luke 15:4-5, Jesus tells of a shepherd leaving 99 sheep to find the one that’s lost, carrying it home with joy. That’s God with us He seeks us before we even know we’re lost.
Psalm 119:176 says, “I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant.” When we feel lost, we can pray, dive into Scripture, and trust God’s already on the move. Jeremiah 29:13 promises, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” So next time you ping your phone and find it, let it remind you (03:19):
God’s seeking you too, ready to bring you home.
Today's show, Disconnected Friendships and Technology is going to be rather deep. Social media makes it so easy to unfollow or block someone we once called a friend. One tap, and they’re gone from our feed. But in real life, cutting ties isn’t that simple, is it?
On platforms like X or Instagram, unfollowing can feel like a quiet exit, while blocking is more like slamming the door. Sometimes it’s accidental; other times, it’s intentional when a friendship turns toxic. But here’s the question (03:29):
how does our faith guide us when we’re tempted to hit that button?
The Bible calls us to forgive seventy times seven (Matthew 18:22). That’s tough! Yet mental health teaches us to recognize when a friendship is unhealthy. Some relationships lift us up; others drain us. So how do we balance forgiveness with protecting our peace?
Forgiveness doesn’t always mean keeping someone close. It’s about letting go of bitterness in your heart, maybe pray for them, while setting boundaries to guard your well-being. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart.” If a friendship constantly hurts you, it’s okay to step back. That’s not failing at faith—it’s wisdom.Here are three quick tips to navigate this:
Pause and Pray (03:44):
Before unfollowing or blocking, ask God for clarity. Is this about hurt or healthy boundaries?
Assess the Relationship (03:52):
Is it mutual and uplifting, or consistently toxic? Be honest with yourself.
Forgive from Afar (03:57):
You can forgive without staying connected. Release the resentment and trust God with the rest.
Technology makes disconnection instant, but faith calls us to act with intention. Let’s build relationships that honor God and nurture our souls.
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