How can we ensure we bless others before parting, as in Genesis 31:28? \A missed opportunity—Genesis 31:28\ “You did not even allow me to kiss my grandchildren and my daughters goodbye. Now you have done a foolish thing.” (Genesis 31:28) Laban’s lament highlights a real loss: the family parted without a farewell blessing. Scripture treats such blessings as weighty gifts, not optional niceties. \Why farewell blessings matter\ • They affirm God’s covenant love in everyday life (Numbers 6:24-26). • They leave relationships whole instead of wounded (Romans 12:18). • They invite God’s peace into the next season (2 Thessalonians 3:16). • They create memories anchored in grace rather than regret (Philippians 1:3-5). \Steps to bless others before parting\ 1. Plan the moment • Do not let busyness steal the blessing. Schedule a few unhurried minutes. • Jacob slipped away; Laban felt robbed. Intentional goodbyes prevent that hurt. 2. Speak life • Use clear, Scriptural words of affirmation: “The LORD bless you and keep you…” (Numbers 6:24-26). • Echo Paul’s pattern: “Grace to you and peace…” (Ephesians 1:2). 3. Express appropriate affection • A holy kiss, hug, or firm handshake communicates warmth (2 Corinthians 13:12). • Physical touch underscores sincerity, as Jesus showed: “He took the children in His arms… and blessed them.” (Mark 10:16) 4. Offer tangible help • Provide a meal, a ride, or monetary support if needed (1 John 3:17-18). • Generosity turns words into deeds. 5. Commit them to God’s care • Pray aloud: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23) • Intercession reminds everyone that true safety is in the Lord’s hands. 6. Clear the air • Forgive and seek forgiveness; unresolved conflict poisons partings (Ephesians 4:31-32). • Laban and Jacob later made a covenant; earlier mercy would have spared anguish. \Scriptural models worth imitating\ • Isaac blessing Jacob before departure (Genesis 28:1-4). • Moses blessing the tribes just before his death (Deuteronomy 33). • Paul kneeling with the Ephesian elders on the beach, praying and weeping together (Acts 20:36-38). • Jesus’ final benediction as He ascended: “He lifted up His hands and blessed them.” (Luke 24:50-51) \Living a lifestyle of farewell blessing\ • Keep your speech “always gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). • View every parting—daily commutes, ministry trips, long-term moves—as an opportunity to speak God’s favor. • Store up Scriptural blessings in memory so they flow naturally. • Practice gratitude; a thankful heart easily overflows in blessing (Psalm 103:1-2). Purposeful farewells turn ordinary goodbyes into sacred moments, ensuring no one around us leaves empty-handed of grace. |
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