From Cuneiform to the Digital Age: Using Technology Wisely

When we reflect on how humanity has communicated over the centuries, it’s truly fascinating to see the journey we’ve made. Think back to the ancient days of cuneiform, one of the earliest known systems of writing, developed by the Sumerians around 3000 BCE. People would carve symbols into clay tablets, recording everything from laws to stories to the thoughts of the kings. This act of writing was more than just practical; it was seen as something sacred. The Sumerians believed that their gods gave them this gift of writing. This wasn’t just a new tool; it was an avenue through which the divine communicated with humans. "What we write," they thought, "is not just human; it's something that comes from the gods."

In the same way, today we live in a digital age where words, ideas, and communication travel faster than ever before. We’re no longer limited to clay tablets or even paper—now we have the ability to send messages across the world instantly, through texts, emails, and social media posts. The incredible speed and reach of digital communication can sometimes overwhelm us, but it also presents an opportunity to think deeply about how we use these gifts. And just like the Sumerians viewed their ability to write as a divine blessing, we too must view the power of modern communication as a gift from God—a gift that comes with immense responsibility.

The Bible talks a lot about wisdom and knowledge, and it’s clear that the wisdom we have—whether it’s ancient or modern—is a gift from God. Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Let's break this down further.

The word for wisdom here is חָכְמָה (chokmah), a powerful Hebrew word that refers to practical wisdom, the ability to make good decisions and live skillfully. It’s not just about book knowledge, but about knowing how to live in a way that honors God. It’s an all-encompassing kind of wisdom, one that teaches us how to live in relationship with God, others, and the world around us. When the Bible speaks of wisdom, it’s not just talking about knowing a lot of facts—it’s talking about a deep, lived understanding of the world as God created it, and a strong awareness of how our choices impact the people and environment around us.

The word knowledge in this verse is דָּעַת (da’at), which goes even deeper. Da’at speaks to a personal, intimate knowledge, a deep understanding that comes from God Himself. It’s the kind of knowledge that isn’t just mental; it’s relational. It’s the knowledge that comes from walking with God and understanding the world through His eyes. When God imparts knowledge, it’s a gift that transforms us, helping us see life through His perspective.

This verse tells us that all knowledge, wisdom, and understanding ultimately come from God. Whether it’s the knowledge of ancient texts or the knowledge we gain from modern technology, it’s all a part of God's provision. And with that gift comes a responsibility—to use our knowledge wisely.

In the same way that God gave humanity the charge to care for the earth in Genesis, we are called to be stewards of all the tools we have, including the tools of communication. Just as we are to steward the earth by tending to it, we are also called to steward our knowledge and the technologies that allow us to communicate and interact with others. Our responsibility isn’t just to use these tools for our benefit, but to ensure that we use them in ways that reflect God’s will for humanity—to love one another, to spread truth, to seek peace, and to bring about good.

This is why Proverbs 18:15 warns, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” The Hebrew word discerning here is נָבַן (navan), which means to understand, to comprehend with insight. This isn’t just surface-level understanding. Navan is about seeing the deeper meaning, the heart of things, and being able to understand the true nature of situations. It requires careful thought and attention, which is critical in the digital world, where there is an overwhelming amount of information coming at us constantly. Not everything we hear or read online is true, and not everything is beneficial. So, being discerning means having the wisdom to sift through information, recognizing what is good, true, and life-giving, and discarding what isn’t.

In James 1:5, we are encouraged: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” The Greek word for ask here is αἰτέω (aiteō), which means to ask with earnestness, a petition that comes from a deep need for help. This isn’t a casual request—it’s the asking of someone who recognizes their lack and is genuinely seeking God’s guidance. Aiteō implies a request made in faith, trusting that God, who is all generous, will answer. This is especially important in today’s world where we can easily get lost in a sea of miss and dis -information. We must ask God for the wisdom to discern what is right and true, trusting that He will guide us.

When we come to the matter of words, the Bible has a lot to say about the power of what we say—especially in the age of digital communication. Ephesians 4:29 urges us, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” The word unwholesome in Greek here is σαπρός (saprós), meaning rotten, decayed, or foul. It’s the same word that would be used for spoiled food—something that is no longer useful, something that harms rather than nourishes. So, when Paul says “unwholesome talk,” he’s warning us against words that tear down, spoil, or cause harm.

We are told to avoid words that damage or hurt others and instead choose words that build others up. The Greek word for building up here is οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeó), meaning to construct, to strengthen, to make something stronger. Just as builders use tools to carefully craft a structure, we are to use our words to build people up. Words are powerful—they can either build or tear down. This isn’t just true in person, but especially in the digital world. Online, people can often feel detached from the reality of their words, and it’s easy to slip into negativity or even cruelty. But God calls us to use our words to strengthen others, to encourage them, to make them better, not worse.

Galatians 6:7 also reminds us of an important truth: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” The word sows in Greek is σπείρω (speirō), which literally means to plant. Our words, actions, and decisions are like seeds—what we plant will grow. If we sow kindness and respect, we will reap kindness and respect. If we sow discord and hatred, we will reap the consequences of that too. In the digital age, this truth is ever more relevant. Our actions online are no less significant than those in person, and they can have lasting effects.

Humility is another key virtue that the Bible teaches us about, especially in relation to how we use digital platforms. Luke 14:11 says, “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” The word exalt here in Greek is ὑψόω (hypsóō), meaning to lift oneself up, to elevate oneself in status or importance. But Jesus teaches that this kind of self-promotion is not the way of the Kingdom of God. Instead, those who humble themselves—those who use their platform not for self-promotion, but to serve others—will be the ones who are truly honored by God.

And when we talk about loving our neighbors, the Bible is clear: this command is not limited to the physical world. The call to love, as found in Matthew 22:39, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” holds just as true online. The Greek word for love here is ἀγαπάω (agapáō), which refers to a selfless, unconditional love. Agapáō isn’t just about being kind when it’s easy; it’s about loving others in a way that reflects God’s heart, even when it’s hard. The digital world can be a tough place to love others. People can be harsh, divisive, or even downright unkind. But we are called to be different. As Christians, we are to use our presence online to reflect God’s love to those around us. Hard as it may be sometimes.

Finally, in a world filled with distractions, we must remember that our first allegiance is to God. Colossians 3:2 says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” The word set in Greek here is φρονέω (phronéō), which means to focus or direct one’s thoughts intentionally. It’s a call to be intentional in our thinking, to make sure that the distractions of the world—digital or otherwise—don’t pull us away from our relationship with God. The internet is not evil, but it can easily consume us if we let it. We are called to prioritize our relationship with God, seeking His will in all things, even in how we use technology.

The journey from cuneiform to the digital age shows us how communication has evolved, but God’s wisdom remains timeless. Whether we’re dealing with ancient texts or modern social media, God’s call to steward knowledge, speak words that build others up, walk in humility, and love our neighbors is just as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us of this truth: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Let’s trust God, seek His wisdom, and use the tools He’s given us to honor Him and build others up.

I hope this message blessed you. If so, please leave a comment. I look forward to hearing from you.

Anna M. C. Hazen  2025

The image is AI generated on chatgpt.  Pretty neat, huh?