Fear of the LordVoorbeeld

Applying Our Heart

Proverbs 2:2 (NIV):

"...turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding."

Solomon uses an important conjunction in Proverbs 2:2 - “AND”. 

Why is this word so critical to understand? It highlights that "just listening" does not make one wise, or even fear God. We must understand and apply these commandments in our heart. Our heart is the place where you are all in. Our heart is where we make vows and covenants. We love and commit from our hearts. Usually, the heart leads our mind, will, and emotions in good or bad relationships or choices. 

Solomon is advising that if we genuinely want the fear of God to be in our lives, we must be all in. Our heart needs to be in a position to truly seek out God and His Word and apply the principles we learn. We shouldn't just be listening but implementing these commandments.

For instance, you could hear one hundred messages from your pastor on topics like tithing, loving others, or serving; however, listening to these sermons alone doesn’t make us more generous, obedient, loving, or serving. But, when we apply our heart to the biblical principles we learn, we begin to practice the lessons the spirit of God is teaching us.

On many occasions, I felt God wanted me to improve on one of the fruits of the spirit. In response to this, I would make a log of my behavior toward this trait. Sometimes I would even find an accountability partner to check in with to help me maintain my commitment to better apply this character trait in my life.

In our pursuit of wisdom, we are not learning facts; instead, we are learning the nature, personality, and thoughts of God—just as you would in an intimate relationship. God shares his heart as we listen. When we apply what He has spoken, whether it be large or small, He feels listened to, heard, and respected by us.

Applying what God is speaking to us prepares us for the fear of God because it puts us in a relationship of “Yes, Father, I am listening and will do all you say.” The lesson and application God may give you can be in any area or relationship in your life. So, if we genuinely desire the fear of God, we must be willing to apply what He is teaching to prepare us to learn even more!