Blessed to Be a Blessing

“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” – 1 Peter 3:8 A number of years ago, I went with a friend of mine to work with local homeless communities. As one who was still growing and maturing in faith (a never-ending process), I was wrestling with the issue of compassion, specifically as we encountered people who were very troubled. Though many of those to whom we offered help were down on their luck and grateful for the assistance, others were addicted to drugs and alcohol and you could see signs of abuse towards their wives and children. Witnessing this was very disheartening to me, and I came to the point of wondering whether serving this population was truly having an impact. Though it felt like we were bucketing water out of a river, my wise friend gently reminded me that we were

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me;your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:1-4 Man, you’re going to be so blessed. You’re going to be blessed to be a blessing. You’re going to be above and not beneath; you’re going to have more than enough. Your cup is going to run over. You’re going to lay down in green pastures. You’re going to be restored. You’re going to have full batteries. You’re going to have fresh vision. You’re going to have victory after victory because He chose you — that is what Jesus says. He says I am the