Monday, 7 July 2014

How Blessed Are You?


Blessings may come unexpectedly and all too often go unrecognized for what they are. God often speaks in a “still small voice” (1 Kings:19:12). He also seems to use “still small blessings” to let us know He is there for us. When blessings are recognized, our response can only be one of thankfulness. It amazes me that people seem to skip over great blessings or simply do not recognize the big ones—let alone the small ones. 
Small blessings, which are all free, are constant reminders that God is there. What a great source of comfort they can be. I read of the ten lepers Jesus healed in Luke:17:12-18. I cannot imagine what these men had gone through in their lives. Leprosy is terribly debilitating and these people were shunned by others in Israel. These men stood far off (as lepers had to) and called out for mercy. 
Jesus gave them the free gift and blessing of being healed, however, only one came back to thank Jesus. This blessing Jesus gave allowed them to “live” again. The miracle was physically impossible and would be classified as a wonder today. Perhaps the other nine men eventually realized what a blessing they had been given. Let us hope so. God loves to give blessings to mankind.
The best thing about a blessing is that it is free. God does not just indiscriminately pass out blessings. His favor is contingent upon obedience. But often God uses blessings to call people to Him and give them the opportunity to repent and follow His way.
 The ten lepers were miraculously healed because of Jesus’ merciful nature. Paul would often enter Gentile cities and God would heal some who had never heard of Jesus Christ. They first thought their pagan gods had descended (Acts:14:9-11). In these cases, God was getting people’s attention and building the church. 
A blessing may be considered as a gift or some act that brings joy and happiness, or it may fill a need. Though simple it may seem, people can be a blessing to others if their words and actions are properly considered and rightly given.
stay tuned.

God bless!

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