The Future of SLM in the Digital Realm
By Ronnie Barnes
Source of Light has come a long way in the last decade. In missions, there is often the mindset of finding the most economical way of doing things. But the Bible actually speaks to that:
“If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.” (Ecclesiastes 10:10).
Ministries far too often have applied more strength, used blunt objects, and not achieved their true potential. We understand that we must be wise stewards of our resources, but far too often we consider the financial resource at the expense of the people resource. “Whetting the edge” at Source of Light has meant significant and strategic but modest investments in the SLM infrastructure. Ironically, the expense of whetting the edge of newer technology hasn’t been nearly as costly as was once thought. At the same time, productivity has soared.
Through the implementation of upgraded equipment, the latest in standardized software and storage, and training to go along with each addition, SLM, through the Media and Marketing Department, led by Ronnie and Ron Barnes (son and father), has moved into a more productive season electronically speaking.
We have also implemented electronic, online enrollment of students for both basic SLM courses as well as the World Wide Bible Institute, which is now in Spanish online also. These were hurdles SLM feared clearing for years but have now become a reality.
Our missionaries are in better, more regular, more personal connection with their administrators and each other than ever before, with resources available in “real-time” online at the stroke of a key. This has reduced the scores of back and forth for information, files, tracking of funds, and donors, saving significant time and money.
Our online presence through our website, social media, online videos, and livestreamed training events has expanded the ministry beyond what previously our financial constraints would allow, and has opened doors far beyond what we could have imagined.
But we must not rest here, or else we fall behind again. Moving forward, 2023 will be another challenging year as we anticipate the need to secure several new and better pieces of equipment and software. Communication and collaboration are keys to effectively running any business, and now that SLM has access to some of the best internet access in the area, we can take advantage of some newer, and cheaper, ways of doing our work.
It will come at some expense, so we are trusting God to provide in each of these endeavors and ask you to pray along with us for the following things:
- Upgraded servers and licenses – $20,000
- Replace switches – $4,400
- Replace phone system – $5,000
- Search for fully integrated software system for all SLM processes
- Training for using newer systems, software, and technology
- PATIENCE… If you have ever had to call for tech support, you know what to pray for
