The Lord has given much to each of us. He has bestowed blessings and gifts upon all of His children. Most importantly He has given us salvation and love in Jesus Christ our Savior. Yet many don't recognize what they have been given. Who notices the blessings and gifts that the Father has put in their lives through His Son Jesus Christ?
They come in many forms: gifts of the Spirit, assignments in His service, prayers one feels went unanswered (they weren't unanswered, the answer was no or not now), prayers that were granted, children, spouses, brothers and sisters in Christ, guidance in His path, and so many other ways. Just because it doesn't line up with our plans doesn't mean it wasn't a blessing. God has a plan for each of us and it doesn't always line up with what one has planned for their own life.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13
God knows everything that is going to happen in this world in every different situation. The things He does guides each person to the best possible turn of events to complete His plan of what He knows is best for each person. One person may be disappointed they didn't get that job, but God knows what that job leads to. As Christians, there must be trust in the Lord and His plans for each person.
Blessings don't always come in the form someone expects. Blessings are most certainly not usually material things like money, nice cars or houses, etc. They are the people that surround us, the relationship between the saint and Christ, the ability to help others, the fire that burns within to share the gospel and serve the Lord, and other things like being in the right place at the right time to do His work.
But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:19
Blessings are needs not luxuries.
And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. John1:16
Blessing are grace, mercy and salvation.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:1-6
Blessings are rest, peace, strength, guidance, protection, comfort, bread of life, living water, the anointing of God, mercy, and eternity with Him. There is so much more.
God gives His children much. As servants of the Lord, everyone must ensure they use what God gives them. If one has the gift prophecy they should use it to edify the body of Christ and share that vision or word from the Lord given to them. If one has the gift of healing they should use it to lay hands on the sick and heal them. If one has the gift of wisdom, knowledge, faith, tongues, discernment, or miracles use those gifts to glorify the Lord and help others as instructed by God.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 1 Corinthians 12:7
As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10
Blessings are not winning the lottery, getting a sports car or a million dollar house. They are not increasing luxuries, but instead increasing crowns in the kingdom and provisions to make it and help others here on earth. Blessings are meant to be shared. They are meant to be spread. Blessing are as much meant for giving as receiving. What do you do with what God has given you?
Please help us continue to share in God's work. We are blessed to be able to do this work, but we need help. Please donate today and help us help others. God bless you and may Jesus keep you.
