Examining the practice of IT
Why humility and wisdom should go hand in hand
As someone who considers himself a quasi-IT “professional,” I’ll admit something many of us in technology probably won’t say out loud: we can sometimes come across as a bit … all-knowing.
You know the look — slight head tilt, confident nod, maybe a quiet sigh when someone asks why the Wi-Fi “just stopped working.” It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing we understand everything about technology — or at least acting like we do.
The reality, however, is quite different…
And it usually involves Googling something five minutes after confidently saying, “Oh yeah, that’s an easy fix.”
My grandfather, Robert Smith, was a medical doctor for four decades. He would often remind me that what he practiced was not the complete and perfect knowledge of medicine. Rather, it was the practice of medicine — a continual process of learning, applying and adapting.
The legal profession uses the same language. Attorneys don’t know every nuance of the law. Instead, they operate within a law practice, where they interpret and apply principles in an ever-changing environment.
I would argue that IT should be viewed in the very same way.
IT is not mastery — it’s a practice
The field of information technology evolves at an exponential pace. New tools, threats, platforms, and methodologies emerge constantly — usually right after you feel like you’ve finally figured something out.
At the same time, the sheer volume of knowledge within IT is so vast that no single individual can know it all, let alone fully understand how every piece applies to real-world scenarios, especially in ministry contexts.
That’s why IT is not about achieving mastery; it’s about continuous practice.
Recognizing this distinction is critical — not just for those of us working in IT, but also for those hiring and leading IT teams.
What to look for in an IT professional
When evaluating an internal IT staff member or an external partner — such as a managed service provider (MSP) or contractor — it’s worth asking a deeper question: Do they understand that IT is a practice?
Here are a few indicators to help guide that evaluation:
1. Confidence paired with continuous learning
The right IT professional brings confidence — but not arrogance. They should demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and growth, recognizing that today’s expertise can quickly become outdated. They should be comfortable saying, “I don’t know… yet.” (That last word is key.)
2. Experience across contexts
Look for experience that goes beyond a narrow scope. The best IT practitioners have applied their knowledge across different environments, allowing them to understand not just how something works, but when and why to use it.
3. Humility in communication
Be cautious of anyone who communicates as though they’ve “seen it all.” Strong IT leaders acknowledge their limits. They know they can’t be experts in everything — and they’re comfortable saying so.
This isn’t about finding a “jack of all trades and master of none.” It’s about finding someone who knows how to navigate complexity with wisdom and humility.
4. Flexibility in approach
In IT, there is rarely only one right way to do something. Solutions must be adapted to context, budget, risk tolerance, and organizational goals. If someone insists there is only one solution, it’s worth asking if they’ve considered all the variables — or just the one they’re most comfortable with or incentivized to promote.
Take technologies like multi-factor authentication (2FA) or endpoint (anti-virus) protection. There are multiple valid approaches depending on the environment. Context matters. Budget matters. User experience definitely matters (as anyone who has tried to explain 2FA to a reluctant user can confirm).
A good IT practitioner understands these nuances rather than pushing a single rigid solution.
5. Partnership versus prescription
There’s a difference between someone who partners with you and someone who simply hands down solutions like stone tablets. As a consultant, I often guide and then implement based on client direction. As an employee, the expectation might be different — but in both cases, trust and collaboration are essential.
6. Thoughtful change, not “rip and replace”
Be wary of those who default to tearing everything out and starting over. While sometimes necessary, a “rip and replace” mentality often overlooks existing investments, user familiarity, and organizational realities.
Experienced practitioners look for ways to evolve and improve before they replace.
A lifetime of learning
I’ve been practicing IT for nearly 30 years. In many ways, I still feel the same as I did on my first day — aware of how much I don’t know.
There is always more to learn than I can possibly comprehend.
And yet, those decades of experience matter. They provide context. They shape judgment. They help me understand how to apply ever-changing technology in meaningful ways — especially in the unique and evolving needs of ministry.
The final thought
Whether you are building an internal team or selecting an external partner, seek out those who view IT not as a destination, but as a discipline.
Find people who are committed to practicing IT — continually learning, adapting, and applying their knowledge with humility and purpose all tied to ministry impact.
Because in the end, this is not about having all the answers.
It’s about faithfully practicing what we know… and continuing to grow until we are with Him in glory.
Jonathan Smith is the president of MBS, Inc. and the Chief Technology Officer at Faith Ministries in Lafayette, Ind. He is an author and frequent conference speaker. Follow him on X @JonathanESmith
