How Theology Can Be Used in Practical Life
1. Making Moral Decisions
Have you ever had those moments where your anger flares up, and you’re on the verge of losing control? Maybe someone has pushed your buttons one too many times, or perhaps a reckless driver cut you off, endangering you and your loved ones. In those split-second moments, how do you respond? More importantly, how should you respond?
Our natural tendency is often retaliation. We want justice—immediately. But theology offers us a different perspective. It teaches us to see beyond the immediate emotions and to trust in God’s sovereign justice rather than seeking revenge ourselves.
2. Who Are You?
So how does theology help in these situations? What does understanding doctrines like predestination or soteriology have to do with our daily struggles? Theology isn’t just theoretical—it’s transformational. It reveals the character of God so that we can truly know Him. And in knowing God, we gain a clearer understanding of ourselves—who we are, where we come from, and where we are going.
When we grasp that God is sovereign, that He is actively involved in our lives for our ultimate good, it changes how we navigate challenges. The frustrations, injustices, and disappointments we face are not random; they are under the authority of a loving God who is shaping us through them. Theology provides the foundation for faith in God’s control, giving us peace amid chaos.
3. Who Is He?
How should we react to people who insult us, hurt us, or even threaten our lives? Many ask, “What would Jesus do?” But a better question is, “What did Jesus do?” He didn’t just tell us how to live—He showed us. He forgave those who persecuted Him, healed the broken, and extended grace to sinners.
So when someone wrongs us, we don’t have to guess at the right response. We already know. Jesus has already set the example: forgiveness, grace, and trust in God’s justice. By studying theology and knowing Scripture, we are reminded daily of God’s love, not only for us but for those who offend us. That realization humbles us and softens our reactions.
Our thought patterns and behaviors are shaped by what we believe. If our minds are not aligned with God’s will, we will react in ways that do not reflect Christ. But when we remind ourselves that every person is made in the image of God and that His love extends to them just as much as to us, it changes our perspective. Instead of reacting in anger, we learn to respond with grace.
Conclusion
Studies show that the average person looks in the mirror 8-10 times a day, not counting the countless selfies taken on smartphones. Why? Because we care about how we appear. We check to make sure we look presentable to the world around us.
But what if we examined our souls just as often? What if we consistently looked into our hearts to see if we were reflecting Christ? Theology is the mirror that helps us do just that. It reveals our shortcomings, our desperate need for God’s grace, and the beauty of Christ’s holiness.
Jesus calls us to follow Him, and that means more than just good behavior—it means a transformed life. “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24, ESV).
So, how do we become more like Christ? By surrendering our natural impulses, embracing His example, and studying theology—not just for knowledge, but for transformation. Look into the mirror of God’s truth today and let it shape who you are and how you live.
