Okay, you’ve completed your Bible reading and studying; what do you do now?
You understand the passage and want to pursue the takeaway, the application, the practice.
What is biblical application?
Biblical application is not a checklist of passages you have read or even listened to on an app. Application is an “action.” Pursuing an action may involve searching in the following areas:
- A change in your mind: Such as what you put into it, some examples; television, magazines, internet, social media. Are these areas of influence used in a manner aligned with Christ? Philippians 4:8.
- A change in your behavior: Such as attitudes, helpfulness, laying aside yourself, or sacrificing your time to help/encourage others. 2 Timothy 2:15
- A change in your spiritual growth: Add dimension and layers to your spiritual life; utilizing Bible studies, devotionals, prayer time, audio bibles, bible apps, and Christian music. This provides a selection of tools to expand your growth. Strive for maturity in Christ. Hebrews 6:1.
- A change in your heart: The Lord searches all Believer’s hearts. Is your heart spiritually healthy? What kind of spiritual food do you take in to keep it healthy? Is your heart pliable for the Lord to use, or tend to be self-concerning? Use these questions for a heart check. Jeremiah 17:10.
Action Components
The above actions components can be used as the conduit to apply God’s Word. Finally, I love the simplicity of James when it comes to application. In James 1:22-25, he teaches, don’t just be hearers of the Word, but doers of the Word. How simple is that? Take what you read and study and just do it!
Have an Action Plan
I love actions plan; they help maintain focus and provide reminders. Here are a few action points you may want to consider:
- Stay Consistent – Do something every day; read, study, search for an application, search for an opportunity.
- Use a Reading Plan – Consistent reading of your Bible beckons you to pursue the application.
- Keep a Journal or Checkoff list – track what you read or write verses that stood out to you in a journal. It is always inspiring to go back and read.
- Set Goals – Start small. Serving is needed in all areas of ministry.
- Prayer, Prayer, and more Prayer – Stay connected to God. He is your guide.
- Begin Doing – There are many areas to serve; find one and just “do.”
Eventually, you will find yourself in a good ebb and flow of applying and, like the tree limbs in the photo, you will be reaching out and doing for others.
Begin the Journey—–Study, Practice, Teach