John Chapter 13: Verse 17 (NIV)
“Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”
Jesus had just taught His disciples an important lesson in service and humility. But I think the most important lesson of all is this verse, which applies to any of His teaching. How often have we been impacted by a good sermon which has struck a chord with us? How many sentences and verses have we underlined in our bibles, or in a favourite book? But then what do we do? We could in fact underline everything in the bible, as it is the inspired word of God after all. But if we don’t put into practice all that we have learned, or take on board the things God wants us to do, then it doesn’t matter how good the sermon was, or how much we have enjoyed it. And that’s exactly what the disciples needed to hear. Things were going to change for them very soon and they would need to put everything they learned into practice.
We might feel blessed after hearing a powerful sermon, but Jesus reminds us that the real blessing comes from doing what it has taught us.
Dear Lord,
I am grateful for all the lessons and sound teaching I have had over many years. I realise that the real benefit comes from putting it into practice. Help me to remain faithful in doing that. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.