by Donna Marie Berger

A few days ago, I called a restaurant in Charlottesville, VA to make a dinner reservation for the evening of my son’s graduation. The mention of graduation sparked a conversation with the man who answered my call. He related to me that his son had graduated with a degree in writing a few years earlier but was having trouble finding his niche and was discouraged. I took a few minutes to share some of my experiences on the subject and encouraged him to promote his son with a message to be strong and not give up.

Most unfortunately, the restaurant was already completely booked for the evening, but “Jim” was truly appreciative of our conversation and said he was excited to call his son and support his efforts with some of the tips I shared. That made me remember that we are blessed, to be a blessing to others.

In 2 Corinthians 9:8 we read that, God is able to bless us abundantly, so that in all things at all times, we will have all the blessings that we need, to overflow in every good work.

When we receive Jesus into our life, and believe in His name, He gives us the right to become children of God. (John 1:12) As children of God, we are abundantly blessed with both earthly and spiritual blessings. We give thanks for earthly blessings of food, clothing, shelter, a happy family and good health, but as the renowned preacher, C. H. Spurgeon says, “our thanks ought to go to God in thunders of hallelujahs” for the spiritual blessings of grace that bring forth in us deep faith and an undying love of God.

God does not pour out His blessings for us to lock them up in our hearts. In Genesis 12, God says, “I will bless you….so that you will be a blessing.” We are called to share our blessings with others, so we may reflect the love and goodness of God, and, there is no better way of giving thanks to God for abundant blessings, than to bless others in His Name.

Sharing our time, talents, treasure, a word of encouragement, a hand, or something as simple as a smile are all ways we can be a blessing. When we bless others humbly, out of the love in our hearts, and for the glory of God, we abide in the Lord and draw closer to Him.

Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. Proverbs 11:25

Don’t miss an opportunity to be a blessing today!