On Monday and Tuesday, we examined Solomon’s third purpose for writing the book of Proverbs and sought to apply it.  How did I get to those specific applications?

Whenever we study a passage of the Bible, I find it helpful to think in the three categories of Head, Hands, and Heart.  Each of these categories represents a way in which I can respond to a text.

Head applications identify ways I need to believe what is true.  They help me to identify false beliefs so I can repent of them and choose to adopt God’s perspective.  Examples are “God is more powerful than my enemies,” “Jesus is God and became a man to die for my sins,” or “God wants his people to be part of a church.”

Hands applications identify ways I can act upon what is true.  They help me to identify ungodly behaviors so I can repent of them and live in obedience to God’s will.  Examples are “I shouldn’t gossip about or attack my enemies,” “I can take steps to get to know my neighbors better and reach out to them,” or “I should join a good church and get involved in the community there.”

Heart application identify ways I must become more like Jesus.  They help me to identify wicked or foolish desires so I can repent of them and develop more Christ-like character.  Examples are “I must love my enemies as Christ did for me,” “I can trust other people because Jesus knows what it’s like to be misunderstood,” or “I must stop trusting in myself and instead find ways to serve others.”

The first three purposes of Proverbs correspond to these three areas.  Solomon wants us to know wisdom (head), do it (hands), and always improve at both knowing and doing (heart).

When you read and study the Bible, are you growing in all three areas?

Don’t fall into the trap of overly theological (head), ethical (hands), or pietistic (heart) reading of Scripture.  Keep a good balance of all three, and see how much God will do in your life through his Knowable Word!

And don’t feel like you have rely on yourself alone to grow as a Christian.  Join a Bible study, or get more involved at your church!  Others can help you in all three areas in ways you never expected.