2 Sam 2 - Practicing Blessing

I think the speaking of a blessing is a lost art. Words are so powerful. Just think about how a cutting or negative word can tear down. We instinctively use words for our own benefit time and time again. They are powerful tools. Communication literally makes the world go ‘round.

So why not use them for good? Intentionally? Strategically? As an act of love and appreciation? Maybe even as a part of worship? David spoke a blessing to the men of Jabesh Gilead in 2 Samuel 2:

"May the LORD now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this. Now then, be strong and brave, for Saul your master is dead, and the house of Judah has anointed me king over them." (vs.6-7)

Here’s an exercise for today: Let’s intentionally speak blessing over and towards people and see what happens. Try it to strangers serving you coffee at Starbucks, try it with your kids and your wife, try it randomly when you see a person struggling with something. Pray for the opportunity. And watch what happens. Watch their expressions. Watch their demeanors change. I bet you at least you’ll see a moment of peace or a smile. If that is all you get, it would be worth it. Especially for them.

From the beginning, we decided to close each of our services at Austin New Church with a Benediction. The word Benediction just means a spoken blessing. It comes from two words: “speak” and “well”. We don’t try and be high-church about it at ANC, it would certainly be inauthentic for us to do anything high-church. So we use a common language… and hopefully a humble posture… but it’s heart felt and a genuine sending of the church. It’s becoming one of my favorite parts of worship.

This week Tray Pruet closed our service by reading a blessing from “The Message” found in 2 Corinthians. It was a great word of exhortation and blessing and I wish it for each of you who find yourself reading this today:

“And that's about it, friends. Be cheerful. Keep things in good repair. Keep your spirits up. Think in harmony. Be agreeable. Do all that, and the God of love and peace will be with you for sure… The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.”