The Challenge of Applying What We Learn

In our Christian journey, we’re often inundated with knowledge from sermons, Bible studies, books, podcasts, and more. We are privileged to have access to an abundance of wisdom and teachings. But the real question we must ask ourselves is, What are we doing with all of this knowledge?

For many Christians, especially those who have been in the faith for years, it’s easy to become like spiritual sponges—soaking, soaking, soaking—but what good is a sponge if it never releases what it has soaked up? The Bible calls us to be more than hearers of the Word; we are called to be doers. James 1:22 tells us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” The truth is that knowledge without application is futile. It’s like looking into a mirror, walking away, and immediately forgetting what you look like.

Think about the example of a personal trainer. You could attend every fitness class they offer, listen to every tip they share, and even take notes on their workout techniques. But if you never actually put those lessons into practice—if you never lift the weights or hit the treadmill—will you see any change in your physical health? Absolutely not. The same simple principle applies to our spiritual health. It’s not enough to know the exercises; we must actually do them to grow stronger in our faith.

The reality is that it’s not a lack of knowledge that holds us back; it’s the lack of application. We don’t need another sermon to tell us to love our neighbor—we need to love our neighbor. We don’t need another Bible study on forgiveness—we need to forgive those who have wronged us. The gap between knowing and doing is where the true transformation takes place.

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders

Jesus Himself illustrated this principle in the parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27). He spoke of two men who each built a house—one on the rock and the other on the sand. The man who built his house on the rock was likened to someone who hears Jesus’ words and puts them into practice. The man who built on the sand, however, was likened to someone who hears the words but does not put them into practice. When the storms came, the house on the rock stood firm, while the house on the sand collapsed.

This parable emphasizes the importance of applying what we learn. It’s not enough to just hear God’s Word; we must build our lives on it by putting it into action. Only then will we be able to withstand the storms of life.

Challenge #1: Identify and Act

This week, I challenge you to reflect on the most recent sermon or Bible study you attended. Identify one key takeaway and apply it. It could be as simple as showing kindness to a difficult coworker or as challenging as forgiving someone who hurt you deeply. The important thing is to take action. Write down your commitment and put it somewhere you can see it every day. Then, live it out. Share your experience with someone you trust and ask them to hold you accountable. Let’s start bridging the gap between knowing and doing and watch as our faith becomes a solid foundation capable of withstanding any storm.