I’ve written in the past about why I believe that cell phones can hinder ministry, in addition to why I know I must put my phone down in meetings. I recognize, though, that cell phones are a part of our lives. So, perhaps these suggestions will help us “redeem” our phones for ministry.
- Enroll in a “verse of the day” email or text subscription, and read the verse many times each day. Not only will that commitment keep the Word in front of you all day, but you’ll also memorize some texts without even trying. You may even choose to do your daily Bible reading electronically, though I still prefer my hard copy.
- Commit to praying for an unreached people group each day by subscribing to the Joshua Project’s daily prayer list. Take the time to read about each group (usually no more than about five minutes each day), and your heart will begin to break for the nations.
- At least once each week, call somebody with a word of encouragement. They’ll be both blessed by your affirmation and surprised that anyone actually called them rather than sending an electronic message.
- Use an app to memorize scripture regularly. My students like both Fighter Verses and Bible Memory, though you may find another that you prefer. Treasure the Word in your heart that you might not sin against God (Psa 119:11).
- Use an app to challenge and reinforce your prayer life. I’ve found PrayerMate to be a helpful resource, particularly because it allows me to set alarm reminders to take time to pray. Via this app, I have my prayer list with me anytime I have my phone.
- Take pictures of every person you baptize. How I wish I’d made this commitment when I started ministry 38 years ago! Of course, back then you had to carry a camera with you . . . but now your camera is on your phone. Those pictures can be great memories and ongoing encouragement.
- Send an electronic prayer to someone each week. I have friends who include me on their prayer lists (two via texts, and one via email), and I look forward to learning how they’re praying for me each week. I’ve also begun sending voice prayer texts to folks I can’t reach just so they hear the prayer.
- Use live polling to get feedback during a sermon. You have to choose the right technology, train your congregation to give their responses, wisely use the information gained, and not let the technology overshadow the Word—but appropriate polling can help engage your congregation as you preach.
What other ways come to mind for you?
An App I use for ministry on my cell phone is my calendar/scheduling app. Gina and I prefer Cozi which not only does a calendar with reminders but also lets you make to do list. Cozi allows us to share our calendars to keep from double scheduling ourselves.
Use it to take questions before or half way through the sermon.