By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  May 04, 2020

The key to truly making the most of our Bible reading is to apply what we have learned. Seeking out Truth will take work, but the work will be in vain if we don’t allow the Truth to transform our lives. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).

As you study a passage, take notes on what the Holy Spirit is saying to you. Ask yourself what the passage was saying to the original reader and what the passage means. Then ask yourself how you can apply this Truth to your life today. Review your notes often to remind yourself what you have learned. Make a plan to incorporate these Truths into your life.

God knows what we need. When we are open to the Holy Spirit’s promptings, He will give us encouragement when we are struggling, rebuke us when we are rebelling, and challenge us when we need to step forward in faith. He will also use His Word to warn us when we are about to head down the wrong path. Whatever situation we are going through, God will use His Word to give us the knowledge and wisdom to handle it.

Prayer: God, teach me to apply the Truths of Your Word to my life. Help me to be willing to take the time to seek out Truth and to hear what You want to say to me through Your Word. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like” (James 1:23-24).