As a lifelong Seventh-day Adventist, a Systems Analyst with over 15 years in the tech industry, and a proud father of three daughters — one a newborn, one in Grade 1, and one heading into her tween years — life is a beautiful, busy blessing.
Since graduating with my Computer Science degree in 2008, I’ve worked as a software developer, a programmer analyst, and for the past six years, a Systems Analyst. I’ve spent my career solving problems, managing complexity, and helping people use technology more effectively.
Now, as a dad trying to balance family life, faith, and work, I’ve found myself applying those same skills at home — and one of the biggest tools helping me lately has been ChatGPT.
🧠 What Is ChatGPT (and Why Should Christians Even Use It?)
For anyone unfamiliar, ChatGPT is an AI-powered tool that can generate thoughtful answers, write summaries, brainstorm ideas, and more based on your questions or prompts.
As a Christian — and especially as an Adventist — I’m always careful about how technology fits into my values. Tools like ChatGPT, when used thoughtfully, can help us redeem time, not replace wisdom.
I see it like any other tool: a hammer can build a home or cause harm. It’s the hand that wields it that makes the difference.
📱 5 Ways I Use ChatGPT to Lighten the Load
1. Planning Family Worship and Devotionals
Some nights, after long workdays and late-night baby feedings, my energy is running low. ChatGPT helps me brainstorm quick devotionals, find relevant Bible verses, or create fun worship activities for the girls.
2. Starting Deeper Bible Study Discussions
My kids often ask tough spiritual questions, like “If God is love, why do bad things still happen?”
When I’m pressed for time, I sometimes use ChatGPT to gather a basic starting point or overview of ideas.
However, as a Seventh-day Adventist who values deep study and scriptural truth, I never rely solely on AI for spiritual answers. I use it as a launching pad — opening my Bible, praying, and comparing AI suggestions carefully with God’s Word before sharing anything with my children.
3. Jumpstarting My Writing (Like This Blog!)
Between work, kids, and ministry, finding time to write is tough. I use ChatGPT to generate first drafts for blog posts like this one. It breaks the “blank page” fear so I can focus on polishing and sharing meaningful content.
4. Organizing Family Life and Projects
With three kids and a busy household, staying organized is a full-time job. I use ChatGPT to help me draft chore charts for the girls, create simple project plans (like home improvement tasks), and even brainstorm fun Sabbath activities we can do together as a family.
It saves time and keeps me focused, so I can spend less time stressing and more time being present with my wife and daughters.
5. Teaching Responsible Tech Use
As someone who works in the tech industry, I believe it’s critical to teach the next generation how to approach technology responsibly.
I’ve even preached a sermon at my local church about this very topic, called “Deep Fakes” which you can watch here on YouTube.
In our home, and in our faith community, I encourage using tools like AI carefully — always evaluating them through the lens of scripture, prayer, and sound judgment.
🙏 Final Thoughts
Technology will never replace prayer, wisdom, or the work of the Holy Spirit.
But when used intentionally, tools like ChatGPT can help us reclaim precious time to focus on what matters most: loving our families, growing in Christ, and serving our communities.
If you’re a fellow Adventist, a parent, or just someone trying to navigate faith and technology with integrity, I encourage you to prayerfully explore how tools like this can fit into your life — without ever becoming your life.
Thanks for reading. Feel free to comment below if you’d like to connect, share your experiences, or ask questions!
Grace and peace,
Terrence Dixon