I Choose Today to Practice

The other day I was watching the show Amazing Race. The participants were challenged to learn a dance from another culture and then perform it in front of judges who would determine whether or not they got all the steps and nuances correct. They would pick an instructor to teach them what they needed to know. But it wasn’t until they went out to preform the dance, did they understand where they needed to practice some more. Watching their instructors was not enough, they needed to practice and refine their skills to succeed.

This reminds me of what Paul says in Philippians 4:9, where he encourages us to put into practice what we’ve learned in our faith.

“Keep putting into practice all you have learned and received from me-everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.”

Just like the contestants on The Amazing Race, we can’t just watch others live out their faith—we have to step out and do it ourselves. We can read the Bible, listen to sermons, and learn from great teachers, but at some point, we have to apply what we’ve learned. And just like those contestants, we won’t always get every step right the first time.

This is why God gives us ways to refine our faith—through time in His Word, prayer, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and even the wisdom of mentors. As we step out in faith, we begin to see where we need to grow. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about practicing and trusting God to shape us in the process.

I know this firsthand. For months, I’ve been learning about podcasting—studying, praying, and refining the message God has put on my heart. But learning only goes so far. At some point, I have to step out and actually do it. No matter how much I prepare, I won’t fully know what I still need to refine until I put it into practice.

Maybe for you, it’s not podcasting. Maybe it’s stepping out in faith in another way—sharing your story, leading a Bible study, or simply being obedient to what God has been stirring in your heart. Whatever it is, learning is important, but practicing is where growth happens. And the best part? As we step out, God is with us, refining us, strengthening us, and filling us with His peace (Philippians 4:9). What step is God asking you to take today?