My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh. The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. (Ecclesiastes 12:12–13, ESV)
We are looking at 7 reasons you feel empty. Number 6 on the list is unapplied truth.
Sometimes the last thing you need is another Bible Study. You don’t need another book on your bookshelf. You don’t need another conference notebook. You don’t need another podcast to which to listen. You don’t need to hear another sermon preached. You don’t need more knowledge. You need more application.
Sometimes you know the right thing to do, but you don’t do it. You know the step to take, but you have put one foot in front of the other. You have the information but not the transformation.
Solomon said there is no end to learning. And don’t get me wrong. We need to learn. But there is a time to stop the learning and start the doing. There comes a time to take what you have learned and apply it.
Before you go on to the next Bible Study or book, consider how you can apply the truths of the previous study. Evaluate what you have done (or failed to do) in response to your learning. Set a goal. Determine points of application.
One of the best ways to move beyond information is to have accountability. Accountability happens when you have another person to whom you answer. It may be a prayer partner. It may be a spouse. It may be a pastor. How can you give yourself that extra incentive to apply truth in your life?
Reflection
- What is one point of application you learned from your last Bible study or book you read?
- How can you build accountability into your life?
Prayer
Lord, I have learned many things, but often I don’t apply the truth you have poured into my life. Give me the wisdom to not only possess knowledge but to put that knowledge to work. I pray that I will move beyond information to transformation by your Holy Spirit. Amen.
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