“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” Ephesians 1:3 (NIV)
A few years ago, my sister-in-law gave me a stone plaque with a paraphrase of Psalm 127:3 which reads, “Children are a blessing from the Lord”. I noticed, however, that some days raising children didn’t necessarily seem like a blessing. That’s when I began to question my understanding of “blessing”.
Children are a gift from God meant to benefit us. How often, in my very human, narrow way of looking at life, I have wanted “blessing” that look like gifts under the Christmas tree; gifts that come with no requirement for growth and expansion.
Instead, I am learning that God’s perspective on blessing is so much greater than ours. His blessings sometimes nudge me to dig deep, expand, grow and deny self. I am learning the way of sacrifice and of caring for the needs of others. I am learning the way of love, patience and of seeking wisdom. Ultimately, God’s blessings help shape me into a follower of Jesus.
And that’s truly a blessing.
Reflect:
How is God currently stretching me with His blessings?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, You pour out Your blessings in so many ways. Please transform my thinking to see Your blessings for what they truly are, tools to transform me into a follower of Jesus.
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