A Year of Blessing

I am not superstitious. I don’t believe in luck or fortune. I am not afraid of black cats, the number 13 (or any other number for that matter). I am happy to walk under ladders if I need to do so, and I don’t feel bad if I accidentally drop a mirror. I don’t have a rabbit’s foot (I prefer that rabbits keep them) or any other lucky charms. I don’t read horoscopes, I don’t burn incense, and I certainly don’t have anything in my house that resembles a Buddha or any other idol.

However, I do believe in BLESSING. I have no hesitation in saying “God bless you!” to people, even if they are complete strangers. I pray blessing upon my family, my friends, my congregational members, and my country. I also am a big believer that blessing - in many cases - is conditional.

Deuteronomy 28 makes it very clear that obedience to the word of God is the greatest connection to blessing. Psalm 133 tells us that unity also connects to blessing. Malachi 3:10 and Luke 6:38 tell us that generosity to both God and people is a connector to blessing. Ephesians 1 tells us that being in Christ is a source of immense blessing. The Bible makes it clear: many of God’s blessings have conditions attached to them.

Too many people are missing out on living a wonderful fulfilled life simply because they are not willing to abide with the conditions that unlock God’s amazing storehouse of blessing. As your pastor, it is a joy for me to see you blessed. So let me encourage you then: abide by God’s conditions, and usher in His blessings!

Make the decision to obey God fully this year, and let 2012 be the year of blessing for you.