Tag Archives: blessings

August 4
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“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,’ when you have it with you.” (Proverbs 3:27-28, NASB)

As disciples of Jesus, we should aspire to maintain “short accounts” with everyone.  We should not put-off for tomorrow the things that can be done today: The praise that will encourage; the return of a kindness; the helping hand.

Each day, God gives us numerous opportunities to bless the lives of those around us.  Seize as many of these opportunities as strength will allow.  – Luther

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April 4
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“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” (Proverbs 31:8, NIV)

Are you and I channels, or are we reservoirs?

Reservoirs are designed to take-in and hold.  Channels give as they receive. God expects us to be the latter.

Today’s scripture reminds us of our responsibility to expend the “capital” we’ve received (whether it be time, talent, or treasure) for the benefit of others — particularly those who are destitute or disenfranchised. God blesses us in order that we might bless in His name those who have not.

Jesus came to the lost, the least, and the last.  As His disciples, we can do no more; and we should do no less.  – Luther

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August 19
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“Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord. They rejoice in your name all day long; they celebrate your righteousness. For you are their glory and strength, and by your favor you exalt our horn.” (Psalm 89:15-17, NIV)

Learning to “acclaim” the Lord requires both discipline and practice. 

Discipline, because it is something that is contrary to our ego-centric selves.  Practice, because it is only through repetition that it becomes our nature to give God the glory that is rightfully His.

In life, we take so much for granted. If we only thought for 60 seconds of all of the things that God gives us as a matter of His grace: The air we breathe; the water we drink; the food we eat; longevity; the love of our family members; the fidelity of our friends. . ., we would rejoice in His “name all day long.” 

As it is, these simple gifts are seldom noticed, until we are at risk of losing them; or, until we have begun to “walk in the light of [His] presence.” 

As large as the blessing may be in the receipt of God’s gifts; a larger blessing is knowing that God’s reservoir of grace is inexhaustible.  – Luther

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