For some Northwestern State University of Louisiana students, artificial intelligence is not just a learning tool; it has quietly become a spiritual tool. I have noticed how easy it is to turn to AI for quick spiritual answers, instead of awaiting a text from a friend or mentor.  

As an NSU student, I use AI in faith-based activities carefully and with discernment. When my home church in Shreveport transitioned into a modern era, I led the charge of bringing church activities into the twenty-first century. AI quickly became a valuable tool for creating social media posts and graphic designs, while keeping the message authentic. 

Despite the positive impact of AI, such as completing tasks instantly, searching for a Bible verse or asking ChatGPT for faith advice. I still question whether AI undermines the opportunities for personal growth. 

Maria Camila Lopez, senior communication major, said that technology strengthens her understanding of the Word of God. AI allows Lopez to deepen her comprehension of scripture by exploring different interpretations.  

Lopez expressed no concern about the rise of AI. “I believe God is the one who allows things and gives humans the wisdom to develop new ideas and technologies,” Lopez said. "AI can support faith when it's used with wisdom, guided by God.”  

Campus ministry leaders share similar outlooks on emerging technologies. Josie Fowler, senior social work major and Baptist College Ministry vice president, acknowledges AI in everyday college life and what it suggests for student faith.  

“AI usage is highly prevalent in the daily lives of college students,” Fowler said. “The average student uses AI for their assignments, frequent questions and sometimes out of curiosity.” 

Fowler said that students seem to rely on AI for the vital process of turning in assignments and passing classes, adding that humans often choose the easiest path over the harder one. 

AI has become integrated into faith practices. Fowler has seen firsthand how students use AI for spiritual guidance, Bible lessons and prayer prompts, with teachers and religious organizations following suit.  

With her unique perspective on using AI as a tool for faith development, Fowler said that, when used with discretion, AI can be beneficial for developing faith, gathering verses, or creating lessons. However, she encourages students to exercise discernment, as it is crucial to navigate AI carefully.  

Fowler hopes that NSU students will first seek community and campus leaders to strengthen their faith, and she cautions them to use AI sparingly. "Students should first ask themselves whether they can answer their spiritual questions on their own. We have amazing organizations on campus that are valuable resources, and our leaders enjoy answering questions and hearing different perspectives." 

Students are still forming individual opinions about artificial intelligence; however, the conversation expands beyond students.  

On campus, faculty members Nabin Sapkota, professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering Technology, and Damien Tristant, assistant professor of physics and coordinator of the physical science department, are focused on helping students thoroughly understand technology through the Faculty AI Club. 

“Frankly, for a majority of the students, AI is like a black box. They [students] know somewhat its capabilities but don’t know how it works or how one can develop AI applications,” Sapkota explained, adding that another common mistake is assuming that AI is too complex to understand or create. While that may be true in some respects, they emphasize that AI tools and applications can often be developed more quickly and affordably than students realize. 

Damien Tristant said it is important for students to understand that AI is a synthetic system that is programmed to give answers. Although robotic messages can be powerful, they are limited to data and code.  

On Feb. 18, I was reminded of that when I attended the BCM for the first time. Pastor Bill Collins of the BCM delivered an uplifting message to all students, addressing them about the changing world and reminding them to stay rooted in the Christian community, have faith instead of fear and lean on real people and worship. “The changing world and AI make it easier not to hear the voice of God,” Collins added. 

As AI continues to evolve, the question may not be whether AI is harmful but how students use it. For faith leaders and faculty, it is a great tool for assistance, but it does not replace the sense of humanity people bring, especially to faith. In the ever-changing world, students should continue to use their creativity, stay true to themselves and remain steady in their faith, and seek God for answers.  

Though innovations might transform the world, but an individual’s identity and faith must endure unchanged. “It is a distraction from getting closer to God. AI can deepen your faith, going into it intentionally. Let AI handle tasks but let God handle your identity. AI cannot transform your heart; only the Holy Spirit can,” Collins said.