Psalm 103:1-2
“Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul, and all that is [deepest] within me, bless His holy name! Bless (affectionately praise) the Lord, O my soul, and forget not [one of] all His benefits” (Amplified Bible).
The concept of blessing has come to hold more meaning to me than ever before. We can either bless or curse with our spoken words. In recent articles I have written a lot about actions and how they speak louder than words, but that does not mean we are to be silent — rather we are to speak blessing into situations and then act in the manner that is consistent with our words.
In the wedding ceremonies that I perform, I present a challenge to first the groom and then the bride: “Will you listen to (her/his) inmost thoughts and be considerate and tender in your care of (her/him)?” That is very good as a challenge to a couple embarking on their life as husband and wife — it is also a good challenge for each of us. Listen to one’s inmost thoughts! Be considerate! (That means doing to others as you would have them do unto you — the Golden Rule). Be tender! Care for each other! Just think of the difference it would make if we all put those concepts into practice.
Many of us are familiar with the Sermon on the Mount. (Actually it was Teaching on the Slopes.) In Matthew 5-7, Jesus began His public ministry by teaching the basic principles of a godly lifestyle. The teaching begins in chapter five with the Beatitudes. Each of the Beatitudes begins with the phrase “Blessed are you….” The phrase sounds good, but do we really have an understanding of its meaning?
Where do you fit into the concept of blessing? I challenge you to begin blessing people in a meaningful manner. As for me, I will continue to sign my letters and correspondence with a blessing. My deepest desire is that you now will know what I mean when I bless you!
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil