What Does It Mean to “Apply the Word of God?”
Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. — Joshua 1:8
The Author of Scripture “created [your] inmost being” (Psalm 139:13). He designed every aspect of you, so he knows what will—and won’t—help you. He knows what will fill your deepest needs. What will give you a genuine sense of purpose. How to overcome the obstacles that come your way. How to make the most of your gifts and abilities. And how you can meaningfully impact the lives of others.
The instructions are found in his Word! And they are instructions—words meant to be followed and acted upon, not just read and appreciated. When put into action, the words of Scripture will have a profound impact on how you relate to God, yourself, and others. Consider how the principles of Scripture can be applied to your life in these areas —
Your Relationship With God
• Recognize God’s hand in not just your own life but also the world around you
• Discover a potential for joy and fulfillment you never imagined
• Strengthen your faith when doubts creep in
• Draw on his power when tragedy strikes
• Find creative and meaningful ways to worship him
Your Relationship With Yourself
• Identify your spiritual gifts and abilities, as well as opportunities for putting them to use
• Rearrange any misplaced priorities
• Find forgiveness and healing in areas where you struggle with guilt
• Replace apathy with a sense of motivation and purpose
Your Relationship With Others
• Deal with toxic relationships
• Confront a friend who needs to hear a difficult truth
• Find effective ways to show love to your neighbors
• Reconcile with someone who’s hurt you
• Demonstrate Christ’s love to people who don’t know him
Begin Today
Open your Bible, and as you read, consider how the words of Scripture apply to the specific concerns and needs you currently face. Bask in the comfort and peace He gives through His Word. And move on His promptings to act or “stay still.”
Prayer
Thank you Lord for your Word. Help me to be in it often, to listen and obey.
