Be a blessing to others

574 being a blessing to othersThe Bible speaks explicitly about blessing in more than 400 places. In addition, there are many more that are indirectly about him. No wonder Christians like to use this term on their journey with God. In our prayers, we ask God to bless our children, grandchildren, spouses, parents, relatives, friends, co-workers, and many other people. We write «God bless you» on our greeting cards and use phrases like «Habakkuk have a blessed day». There is no better word to describe God's goodness to us, and hopefully we thank him every day for his blessings. I think it is also important to be a blessing to others.

When God asked Abraham to leave his homeland, he told him what he was planning: "I want to make you a great people and I want to bless you and make you a great name, and you shall be a blessing" (1. Moses 12,1-2). The New Life Bible edition says: "I want to make you a blessing for others". I am very concerned with this passage in the Bible and I often ask myself: "Am I a blessing to others?"

We know that giving is more blessed than receiving (Acts 20,35). We also know to share our blessings with others. I believe that when it comes to being a blessing to others, there is more to it. The blessing contributes significantly to happiness and well-being or is a gift from heaven. Do people feel better or even blessed in our presence? Or would you rather be with someone else who is far more confident in life?

As Christians we should be the light of the world (Matthew 5,14-16). Our task is not to solve the world's problems, but to shine as a light in the darkness. Did you know that light travels faster than sound? Does our presence brighten the world of those we meet? Are we thereby a blessing to others?

Being a blessing to others doesn't depend on our life going well. When Paul and Silas were in prison, they decided not to curse their situation. They continued to praise God. Their example was a blessing to the other prisoners and the prison guards6,25-31). Sometimes, during difficult times, our actions can be beneficial to others and we won't even find out about them. If we are devoted to God, He can do miraculous things through us without our even realizing it.

Who can know how many people they will come into contact with? It is said that one person can affect up to 10.000 people in their lifetime. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could be a blessing to each and every one of these people, no matter how small? It is possible. We only need to ask: "Lord, please make me a blessing for others!"

A final suggestion. The world would be a better place if we followed John Wesley's rule of life:

«Do as much good as you can
with all means available to you,
in every possible way
whenever and wherever it is possible for you
towards all people and
as long as possible. "
(John Wesley)

by Barbara Dahlgren