If…Then

“Driving is a privilege, not a right.” These words, from the Missouri driving manual, are echoed by many governments. Yet often people wrongly assume that driving is a right, and that they can drive any way they want. They’re surprised when they’re held accountable and suffer the consequences of violating the rules.

Many look at God’s Kingdom in this same way, assuming they can live however they want and not worry about consequences. But the Bible teaches that God is a God of covenants. As He made clear to Noah, Abraham, and others, His covenants are two-way agreements. He promises blessings, but these are privileges rewarded conditionally, based on our actions.

We see this principle when God reestablished a covenant with the Israelites after their deliverance from Egypt. He declared they would be “His possession,” and He would bless them in many ways. However, there were conditions: If they obeyed, then they would be blessed.

Jesus illustrated this principle when He warned, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter” (Matthew 7:21). There are rewards…for those who do His will.

The same principle is true for us. We can’t just live any way we want if we desire to enjoy God’s blessings, experience victory, or have our prayers answered. As members of God’s Kingdom, we have responsibilities and must meet His conditions.

Today, remember that all of God’s promises are true. He wants to bless you. But remember your responsibilities. Obey His Word. Make Jesus your Lord. Surrender to Him. If you do your part, then all of His blessings will flow into your life.