What if I could do it all over again? What would I do differently?
I wish I never entertained another negative, critical thought. I wish I no longer reacted with selfishness. Oh, that I could always be a blessing to others….always.
When the scripture tells us to “bless those who curse you”, that is exactly what I want to do for those who don’t like me and those who love me. It would probably be a good idea to figure out what that means. I’m working on it.
Giving “being a blessing” some definition would include these qualities:To be a blessing would mean that I would …
1….accept others and not reject them, even if they disagreed with me. Jesus did, while still addressing issues that needed to be addressed, but He accepted others and cared for them even with the differences. That would bless them.
2….show appropriate affection and care by saying things that clearly communicate my love. Or maybe I would hug, shake hands, and give welcoming greetings to show I care. That would bless them.
3…..appreciate others by praising their work, their efforts, and by rewarding them with words or gifts. That would bless them.
4…approve of others by telling them how glad I am to be their friend, to have them as friends or in my family. That would bless them.
5…..pay attention to others by listening well and by doing things they want to do rather than expecting them to do what I want to do. I would find out what excites their interest and enhance that for them, or join them where appropriate. That would bless them.
6….by comforting them with appropriate words and touch, when they are sad or when they need a friend, when they have experienced loss or pain. Maybe I could simply be with them and quietly wait for them. That would bless them.
7…..by encouraging them when they share dreams, goals, or a vision of what they want to be or to do, telling them that I believe in them. That would bless them.
8….by showing respect in my responses to them when they talk to me, by listening attentively, by speaking to them appropriately rather than talking down to them or making them feel disrespected. That would bless them.
9…..by helping them feel safe in my presence and by being a voice of reason and care. If I let them say what they need to say without criticizing them or making them feel silly or stupid. Everyone needs safe people in life. That would bless them.
10….by coming alongside them to help when they are overwhelmed, by offering assistance if they seem to be struggling, and then supplying support if they want it rather than taking over. That would bless them.
God is not against our feeling the pleasure of blessings. Every good gift comes from Him, and pleasure (His way) is experienced when we bless others in His name.
To Whom Can You Be a Blessing Today. I am going to be a blessing to others today!
I Timothy 6:17
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.