Are you a Hearer or Doer?
The other day I was thinking about how much information is available to us at the touch of a button. From learning a new language, how to invest or how to play an instrument—to having a fitness plan custom built to fit your particular needs—the possibilities are endless. Why is it then, that so many of us are stuck and not living up to the abundance God has promised to us?
I submit that we must take a step beyond just receiving information. We must internalize that information and act on it. James 1:22 says, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.” NLT We may be diligent in reading God’s word, but it doesn’t really have value unless we are embodying or doing what the Word says. We may know and even understand the power of forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15) or that we should not worry or be anxious (Phil 4:6-7), but until we put what we know into action, we are only fooling ourselves.
I used to be a person who always worried about money. Even when I was earning a lot of money, I was anxious and worried about it. I decided that I no longer wanted to be anxious about money, so I became a doer of Philippians 4:6-7. I embodied this scripture and took action. I began praying and giving thanks for my bank account no matter the balance. Whenever I paid a bill, instead of complaining, I began to thank God that I had the resources to pay each bill—no matter how big or small. Now, instead of feeling anxious and worried when I pay bills, I look forward to it because I’m so grateful that I have the resources to pay each one. With each bill I literally say, ‘Lord, I’m so grateful for this electricity bill. You’ve blessed me to have access to everything I need to have my house run smoothly. I’m grateful I have the resources to pay this bill’. This keeps me in a state of gratitude and not lack..
Presiding Action
What area in your life would like to improve? It may be your health, finances or relationships. It may be a spiritual area, like worry or forgiveness. Find the information that you need. It might come from scripture, a mentor or even a YouTube video. Gain the information, but don’t stop there. Pray for insight and the strength to move forward. Make a plan to do one small thing to implement what you’ve learned. Last but not least—take immediate action! No matter the area, it will not improve until you put what you learned into action. Don’t worry if you have to adjust your actions or if it takes time. Take small steps daily. It’s about progress, not perfection.
