The Word - May 14, 2012 - PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF GOD'S WORD

"My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commandments in your heart. Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek God's will in all you do, and He will show you the right path to take" (Proverbs 3:1, 3b,5).

This portion of Scripture as a whole is concerned with the practical way to live a God-honoring life. It spells out for us the practical way to find and follow God's guidance in our life.

First, keep God's word in your heart. You do this by reading your Bible every day, and asking the Holy Spirit to help you understand as you meditate, or "mull over" in your mind the truths found there.

Second, think often about God's love and faithfulness to you; especially when going through painful experiences in life. Ask the Lord to give you opportunities to demonstrate the Christ-like qualities in your relationships with others.

Third, trust Him fully, and don't depend on your own wisdom. Practice the art of believing God's promises. Believe that He is faithful, and rest in the assurance that His wisdom is available to help you in whatever problem you may face.

Fourth, acknowledge Him. Begin by recognizing in yourself His presence with you, and His desire to guide you. Recognize His interest in each choice you make in the course of a day. God's presence will then become increasingly real.

Fifth, expect Him to direct your paths. Commit every daily decisions to Him. Then carry out those decisions promptly, firmly and confidently, believing that He is guiding you, and the results will be glorifying to Him.

God's promise that He will make our paths straight if we acknowledge Him in all our ways, is really a call to live a life of faith. The Scripture in the New Testament confirms this call. In Colossians 2:6, we read: "So then, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow Him." How did you first receive Christ? By grace through faith and without works. How are you to "live in Him" each day? In the same way