In what ways can we bless others in the name of the Lord today? Opening the Text “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. From the house of the LORD we bless you.” (Psalm 118:26) The psalmist pictures worshipers arriving at the temple and being greeted by priests who pronounce God’s favor over them. The principle is timeless: when we move toward others representing the Lord, our words and actions can impart His very blessing. What “Blessing” Means in Scripture • To speak well of someone, invoking God’s favor (Numbers 6:24-26) • To act for another’s good, meeting tangible needs (Proverbs 11:25) • To represent God’s heart so that He Himself is the ultimate Source (James 1:17) Ways We Can Bless Others in the Name of the Lord Today 1. Our Words • Speak life-giving encouragement: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). • Offer Scripture directly: “Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a word spoken at the right time” (Proverbs 25:11). • Publicly honor faithfulness you see in others (Romans 12:10). 2. Our Actions • Serve practical needs—meals, childcare, errands (Galatians 6:10). • Show hospitality: open your home for fellowship (1 Peter 4:9). • Stand with the marginalized: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these…you did for Me” (Matthew 25:40). 3. Our Resources • Give generously: “Each one should give as he has decided in his heart” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Share vocational skills—tutoring, repairs, mentoring (Acts 20:35). • Support gospel workers so the message reaches further (Philippians 4:15-17). 4. Our Presence • Offer a listening ear; bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). • Visit the sick or imprisoned (Hebrews 13:3). • Rejoice and weep alongside others (Romans 12:15). 5. Our Intercession • Pray aloud with someone on the spot (Colossians 4:12). • Keep a prayer list and follow up. • Declare God’s promises over situations: “The prayer of a righteous man has great power” (James 5:16). 6. Our Proclamation • Share the gospel clearly: “Repent and believe” (Mark 1:15). • Testify to personal answers to prayer (Psalm 66:16). • Use every platform—social media, workplace, neighborhood—to point to Christ (1 Peter 3:15). Putting It All Together The house of the Lord is no longer confined to ancient walls; believers are now “living stones” (1 Peter 2:5). Everywhere we go, we carry His presence. By speaking truth, serving gladly, giving freely, standing with compassion, praying fervently, and proclaiming boldly, we extend the same blessing Psalm 118 celebrates: “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD.” May our daily lives echo that chorus—so others experience His tangible favor through us and give glory to His name. |
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