The practical aspect of Covenant Theology

It can be thought that Covenant Theology is merely intellectual and doesn't have any practical usefulness.

This is something I think people like myself who are not necessarily attached to any church or denomination but are simply following the truth wherever it leads can wonder about Covenant Theology. We learn it, see the biblical truth in it, then search for practical application of it.

Here is a quote from Ligon Duncan that I thought was a rare statement of the practical aspect of Covenant Theology:

"Last week we said the whole function of Covenant Theology is to do what? Build the assurance of God's people in His promises."

The above from here.

In my own case I tended to articulate the practicalness of Covenant Theology in spiritual warfare terms that is nevertheless similar to the above quote from Duncan. I would write things such as: the pactum salutis is what we stand on, knowing we have legal standing in the Kingdom of God, and asserting this, or using the fact of it for boldness when confronted by the devil or his followers. In other words, if the devil questions whether any of the gospel words are really serious and real you *know* they are because of God Himself making the covenant with Jesus (and the Holy Spirit) before time, and you know God doesn't go back on what he says. I.e. it's just a way to really know what the gospel is to a concrete, practical degree. Assurance not just based on one's faith, but also having understanding of the mechanics and working out of the plan of redemption from eternity. Covenant - Federal - Theology gives you that.