As you study the Word and learn what it says, you’re ready to apply it. Ephesians 6:10-17 encourages you to “put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all the strategies of the devil” (verse 10). This includes wielding “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (verse 17). Here are some steps to applying the Word:
- Discover what the Word says regarding your situation. Whether you are standing for physical healing, emotional well-being, a loved one’s salvation, financial provision, professional blessing or something else, you can find scriptures to stand on.
- Begin praying those scriptures over your situation. For example, if you are praying for a family member’s salvation, begin praying that the Lord will send laborers across his path (Matthew 9:38). The key is to find out what the Word has to say and then pray that over your situation.
- Begin praising God for His promises. If you are fighting depression, begin thanking God that “the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). If you are fighting a chronic illness, begin thanking God that “He was beaten so [you] could be whole. He was whipped so [you] could be healed” (Isaiah 53:5).
- Let the Word be your litmus test for every action you take. Colossians 3:23 says to “work willingly at whatever you do, as through you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Look objectively at your life and ask yourself if the choices you make reflect Jesus. If not, change your choices. God will never bless sin; therefore, commit to getting sin out of your life so that your life can reflect God’s truth.
- Obey the Word by walking in love and forgiveness. There is power in the act of forgiveness. Just look at Jesus’ instructions: “When you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too” (Mark 11:25). God wants you to come to Him with pure heart, one that is free of anger, bitterness and resentment.
Allow your study of the Word of God to help you apply it effectively!