Be a Blessing to Others 

^“I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others.”
Genesis 12:2 (NLT)

I think it’s true to say that all Christians would want to be blessed by God. That’s a good thing to desire and has its foundation rooted in both the Old and New Testaments. The priestly blessing starts off by saying, “The Lord bless you and keep you…” (Numbers 6:24 NIV), and Jesus, in what has become known as ‘The Beatitudes,’ repeatedly said, “Blessed are…” in Matthew 5.

Being blessed by God is a great privilege and something we should all seek; but for what purpose? Do we want to be blessed simply so we are in God’s good books? Do we want to be blessed so it gives us a higher status or a more comfortable lifestyle with increased wealth and good health?

Many do seek God’s blessing for what it will give them, but let me suggest another way. When God blessed Abram it was with the intention that he would be a blessing to others. The key to God’s blessing is that we share it with others. Israel was to be a blessing to the nations and Christians are to be a blessing in our families, church, communities and nation. We are blessed to be a blessing.

How can we do that? In 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV) Paul wrote, “…God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” God blesses us so that we will carry out good works, which Paul says we should do in every way possible and at all times, because God will supply all our needs. As God supplies our needs we can share with others. The NLT version of 2 Corinthians 9:8 says, “And God will generously provide all you need.  Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.”  This sharing doesn’t have to be with major things; sometimes the smallest acts of kindness have the most impact. A cup of cold water, a meal, an item of clothing, a visit, looking after someone who is unwell—these small things can make such a difference in a person’s life. (c.f. Matthew. 25:35-36)

When we bless someone we are being Godlike since God is a God who blesses, and as we bless others, God in turn blesses us even more so that we can go on blessing.

Why not begin each day by asking God to whom and how can I be a blessing today? You never know, a small act of kindness might just make someone’s day, and bless you in the process.

Prayer
Father, thank you for all the blessings you have given to me. Please give me the heart to want share those blessings with others so that they may see your grace in action.
Amen

Study by Barry Robinson

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About the Author:
Barry Robinson is an Elder and pastoral worker in the Greater London area, particularly the Camberwell and North London congregations of the Worldwide Church of God UK.

Local Congregation:
Worldwide Church of God Camberwell
The Salvation Army Hall
105 Lomond Grove
Camberwell
LONDON
SE5 7HN

Meeting Time:
Saturday 11 am

Local Congregational Contact:
Barry Robinson
Email:  barry_robinson@wcg.org.uk