Be the Blessing...

What does that mean? We have been discussing this on a daily basis as a family. What can we do today to be a blessing? It started out at bedtime one night when we were all getting ready to pray. I started asking the boys what they felt it meant to be a blessing to someone. We also talked about what it would be to be a blessing to each other. Do to others as you would have them do to you. Luke 6:31 This is like the golden rule after all right? Brothers will be brothers of course, but we were talking about lifting each other up. Saying positive things and looking for the good in what each other does rather than looking for what they might do wrong. At the same time we know that we can be a blessing to others wherever we may go. Follow God's example...Ephesians 5:1 What can we do for others to be a blessing? One answer was give money if they needed help. Yes, we can give money but it doesn't always have to be about money to be a blessing. We can help someone...another answer. Yes, we can help someone for sure. Maybe there is something that needs to be done and someone needs help. "See a need, fill a need"... from Robots. This is kind of a little motto in our house. This can be anything! Even if you see something laying around and you know it needs to be picked up...you see a need...you fill a need! We are told in Matthew 5:16...In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Let our light shine! Let God's radiance be seen wherever we are! No, we aren't perfect...and we never will be this side of heaven. However, we know that we can work miracles in people and around us every day just by being kind and somehow being a blessing wherever we are. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him. Who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28.  What happens when you put others above yourself? What a difference we can make if we only look past ourselves to see what someone else might need. Whether it is an encouraging word, a praise, help where needed, maybe it is monetary...a blessing can be as small as a smile and a simple thank you. Maybe it is a hug to someone who needs it! BE THE BLESSING!!! Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather in humility value others above yourselves. Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4. As I tell my boys, this world is hard enough. Kids (and adults) are put down and drug down on a daily basis. Be the one to share a smile and a pat on the back. Be the one to support and say "good job". I hope we all remember the next time we are in a restaurant...or in a store...in a parking lot...on the ball field or in the stands...no one is perfect.  Everyone makes mistakes and everyone has a bad day...they don't need to be reminded from you. Be the blessing and share an encouraging word.  You never know what that person is going through or what they are dealing with. The Lord Bless you and keep you. Numbers 6:24