How to Get Blessed

Text: Psalm 1, Matthew 5
Theme: Blessings are not automatic but are attainable.
Key verses: “Blessed in the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of The Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night””For The Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish” (Psalm 1: 1-2, 6) “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meed, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3-11).
What God said to me: You have little or no clue, Dwayne, of the magnitude, the potential, the latent energy of what you just typed. Can you even begin to fathom the enormity of the word “blessed,” when it’s associated with and initiated by me? No, you cannot. Sure, you’ve experienced my blessings in the past. In fact, you are living with their benefits now. Look around at where you live, at the family I’ve blessed you with, the ministries I’ve entrusted to you. Think about the many trustworthy friends you have. And what about the peace you feel in your heart, knowing you are my child and that you are forgiven? You take all of those blessings for granted–blessings you already have. And yet, there is so much more I want to bless you with and in. Truly, your eyes have not seen and your ears have not heard what all I have in store for you–if you will love me and meet my condition of complete obedience and humility. Honor me, Dwayne, and I will honor you. There are no shortcuts. This is not wishful thinking on your part. These are guarantees from my written and infallible Word. So what will it be? A life of struggle and mediocrity or a life that’s blessed beyond measure and words? Your call. I’ve already laid out the ground rules for you, and I’m ready to bless you even more.
What I said to God: Father, what a joy to return to this place of meditation on your Word. Thank You for this quiet time, and for the time to be quiet! This experience has been a great blessing to me. Help me follow and obey You today, so that what You’ve shown me today can lead to even greater blessings in the days to come. I humble myself before You and wait…