January 20, 2005
If
Read: John 13:1-17
If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. —John 13:17
Bible In One Year: Exodus 14-17
A new government regulation will require US foodmakers to list the amount of "trans fat" on the labels of most food products purchased in stores. Trans fat, which has been linked to heart disease, high cholesterol, and obesity, is something most people should limit or avoid altogether. The Food and Drug Administration estimates that Americans could save up to $1.8 billion in medical costs if they reduce their consumption of trans fats.
The key word is if—a reminder that the new labeling information will benefit only those who change their eating habits. It's not what we know but what we do that counts.
After Jesus washed His disciples' feet and told them to follow His example in serving each other, He told them: "A servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them" (John 13:16-17).
In the Bible, we learn what God wants us to do. Obedience moves that knowledge from our heads to our hands in serving others. And not only that—we ourselves are blessed when we obey what God's Word tells us to do. But it all depends on one little word—if. —David McCasland
By those who will obey;
His wisdom, truth, and love are shown
To all who choose His way. —D. De Haan
The way of obedience is the way of blessing.
