On some mornings, as soon as I wake up my heart beats out one word.

A few days ago it was the word ‘apply.’

As I began to think about that word and what the possible implications were for me, I remembered a few products that I use.

Without application, Shout can’t remove stains from laundry, sunscreen can’t protect and lotion can’t soften skin.

None of these products can do what they were created to do if they remain in the bottle. Each must be applied, come in contact with and spread over a surface to have an effect.

I then found the word in the Bible, Proverbs 22:17, “Pay attention and listen to the saying of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach.”

If I want the wisdom of God in my life, first I must know what it is, and one way to learn is by reading the Proverbs.

With 31 chapters, I find it easy to just read the chapter corresponding with the date. (On the 24th of each month, I read Proverbs 24.)

However, reading is the easy part. For God’s Word to have an effect on me, I must apply my heart to it.

I must stretch my heart and mind to include His teachings and absorb His wisdom.

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.