By Dr. Amy Feaver
We are created to solve puzzles through problem-solving. And as a professor of computer science, solving puzzles is a major theme in my life.
It’s easy to think that the Christian faith and logic-based degrees like computer science cannot intersect. However, computers are ubiquitous and ever-present in our world. Without integrating our faith into such an important and prevalent part of our lives, we are divorcing it from a significant part of who we are and what we do.
Whether you’re a computer science major or a video gamer, you have the ability to incorporate your faith into your interactions with computers. In any vocation or hobby, you have to choose if you are going to use your gifts and position to bring glory to God.
Particularly in computer science and logic-based careers, it’s essential to keep in mind that collecting numerical data isn’t always morally or spiritually neutral. In 1 Chronicles 21, King David takes a census when he isn’t supposed to, and then Israel is punished. By taking a census of the men of Israel who were fit to fight, King David was putting his faith in humans instead of trusting God to take care of Israel. This passage demonstrates that whether you’re collecting data or going out on the battlefield, you must think through the implications of your work. Do our actions usher redemption into the world? Are we using our skills for puzzles and problem-solving to honor the Lord and spread the Gospel?
More specifically, when it comes to computer science, Christianity is much more than ethics. Because companies must prioritize profitability to remain sustainable, it’s very tempting to abuse technology for gain. As Christians, we use our moral compasses to determine whether the resources we develop are truly beneficial to the people who use them. When you worship God over money, your priorities fall into place.
You are created for more. God gave us intellect for a reason: He wants us to problem solve. God has gifted us with a love for logic. He wants us to enjoy the act of creating in this world. After all, He is the Creator, and we are made in His image.
Don’t overlook the joy of creation or solving puzzles by dumbing it down as simply “human logic.” I believe that problem solving is more than that. Problem solving leads to the Truth.
