What if We Lived as a Blessing?
Sometimes I think the word “blessing” has a bit of a bad rap these days. Almost tongue in cheek; overused; you know, that whole “Bless your heart” insincerity kind of thing.
Plus, too many people seem to immediately think of material things when they hear “blessing.” I’m not saying that some blessings are not of the material variety, but blessings are more than just good stuff. So much more.
We all have the power to bless.
To ask God prayerfully (through His Spirit) to give us insight into the gifts and future He has for another person, and then to use well-chosen words to speak into their lives.
Words that remind them of God’s promises and power; words that comfort them with God’s unconditional love. Mostly, words that encourage them to live their unique story with God as the divine Author.
I have chosen to spend this year learning how to exercise the power to bless. I’ve decided that “Congratulations” or even “I’m praying for you” are not enough. So, I’m practicing weaving my wishes into blessings.
God’s Word is always my guide for this – His vision for His people.
You shall be a blessing. Fear not, but let your hands be strong.” Zechariah 8.13
“I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. Genesis 12.2
All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Ephesians 1.3 NLT
When I offer a blessing, it allows another person to see themselves as:
- Cherished - understanding God’s unconditional love for them.
- Chosen – reminding that He has called them by name as His child.
- Commissioned – recognizing their gifting and opportunities from God.
- Confirmed – believing they will be empowered for future endeavors.
Today, based on the above Scripture, I’m speaking a blessing over you to live each day as a blessing to others:
Live as a Blessing
Your Creator God desires
not only that you be blessed,
but that you become a blessing to others.
When you encounter stranger, friend, or family
may you see beyond their current identity
formed by life experiences and relationships,
into the emerging person
God has purposed for significance.
May you have God’s wisdom to call out
the future hope, healing and happiness
in those desperate for a
nudge of energy or encouragement.
May you conquer your fear
of interfering or interrupting
as you appropriate Holy Spirit strength
to bless through a word, a touch, an act.
God’s spiritual blessings will change you
even as others receive and respond.
By God’s grace,
may your act of blessing
lead to transformation.
~ Lucinda Secrest McDowell ©2021
Perhaps blessing is like being a “treasure hunter” of others’ potential and identity. Will you join me in learning to mine the gold in people?
Somehow, I believe we will be blessed in the process.
under the mercy, Lucinda
“Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity and Strength”
©2021 Lucinda Secrest McDowell www.LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
Lucinda Secrest McDowell is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” She has authored 15 books including “Soul Strong – 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” and “Life-Giving Choices – 60 Days to What Matters Most.” She writes from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and shares encouraging words at LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
Enjoy 40 Days of Lenten Devotions “Renew” in my book “Dwelling Places” HERE
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Beautiful! And thank you for the blessing. I wanted to share on Twitter and FB as I believe being a blessing to others even with a smile ast a supermarket checkout can change someone’s day- but I don’t see “share” buttons. Blessings to you today, Lucinda.
Thank you so much Marilyn. Feel free to use this link in sharing https://lucindasecrestmcdowell.com/what-if-we-lived-as-a-blessing/
Love this-both the commission and the blessing with which to move into the world today. Joy to you, Jennifer
May the Lord bless you with Joy and Courage dear Jennifer!
Thank you, Lucinda, for sharing a blessing with us and encouraging us to bless others. I’m reading the Lenten section of Dwelling Places. God is using it richly in my life. Love and blessings to you, dear encourager. Please write more about this topic.
Jeanne, so grateful that my Lenten Words are speaking blessing into your heart. Hope to see you sometime, perhaps in 2021…
Lucinda, thank you for reminding with your own words of blessing how powerful a blessing can be.
May we all be living examples of God’s blessings.
yes amen, denise!
This is a beautiful blessing, Cindy. Thank you for sharing it!
oh bff, you bless me in so many ways. love and hugs dear one…
So beautiful! There’s transforming power in blessing. I accept this challenge to bless, in Jesus’ name.
❤️
thanks Maureen - you already are such a huge blessing to me and others.