How To Personally Apply the Truth

At  a recent Christ-centered ladies’ event, one of the ladies seated at my table stated her disdain for a family member who always made sure his conversation with her centered around the Gospel.  She viewed this focus on the wisdom of scripture to be judgmental.  She explained her wild teenage years, her rebellion, and her determination to go her own way.  Now, she was serving the consequences of her previous foolish choices.  In God’s infinite goodness, He was showing her she needed Him since she felt unable to resist the pull of temptation into her familiar sin patterns.   With tear-filled eyes, she realized that in her own power she was unable to break away.

The woman confessed to know that Jesus is God’s son and He died on the cross.  “What have you personally done with that knowledge?”I asked her.  She seemed reluctant to continue with any further discussion that followed this avenue.  I told her I would be happy to pray with her after the program and she responded in an open and thankful way.

As I pondered this conversation, my thoughts were drawn to James’ comment that is good to believe in one God, but the demons also believe and tremble at the thought.  (James 2:19)  The difference?  Demons clearly know the truth, but have not, cannot, personally apply this truth to their existence.  It appeared that this young woman had not personally applied this truth to her heart–yet.  She had knowledge of the facts, but had not appropriated them to her own life.  Doing so would mean she must humbly bow her knee to the Lordship of the King of Kings and Lord or Lords.  (James 4:7-10)  It is often at this point that the devil uses pride to steal away our victories.

We must humble our hearts to receive the wonderful things the Lord has for us.  We can know the truth, or Truth (Jesus), and it (He) will set us free, but the price tag is a humble, believing heart. (1 Peter 5:6-9)  The blood of Jesus breaks victims free from the chains of bondage.  (1 John 1:7 and Galatians 5: 1)   The woman at our meeting needs to accept and apply Jesus’ work on the cross to her life.  Only He can set the captive free, and that is her heart’s cry.  Knowledge of the Savior is different than relationship with the Savior.  He longs to step up to your side and take what’s wrong and make it right!

What do you know about Jesus but have failed to apply to your life?  Do you believe that He is able to do anything you need Him to do?  How hard would it be to humble yourself to receive His very best?  What do you need Jesus to accomplish for you?