THE DESIRE TO BLESS OTHERS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Hebrews 13:2
Supporting Texts: 2 Kings 4:8-17, Proverbs 11:25, Acts 20:35, Luke 6:38, Romans 12:13
INTRODUCTION:
Blessing others is a divine principle that echoes throughout Scripture. It reflects the heart of God, who delights in lifting and enriching the lives of His people. The desire to bless others is not only an act of generosity but a lifestyle that positions us as vessels of God’s favour and grace. In Hebrews 13:2, believers are admonished to show hospitality because, in doing so, some have unknowingly entertained angels. This highlights the profound spiritual impact of a heart willing to bless.
Moreover, blessing others is a reciprocal principle. The Bible teaches that when we bless, we ourselves become recipients of blessing. This cycle of generosity fosters community, encourages faith, and manifests God’s kingdom on earth. In 2 Kings 4:8-17, the story of Elisha and the Shunammite woman demonstrates how God honours those who have a heart to bless others without expecting immediate returns.
In today’s world, where selfishness and self-centredness often dominate, cultivating a genuine desire to bless others sets believers apart. It aligns us with God’s purposes and invites His supernatural favour upon our lives.
1. THE PRINCIPLE OF BLESSING OTHERS
Blessing others is rooted in God’s nature and expressed through our actions.
a) Hospitality is a form of blessing (Hebrews 13:2):
Showing kindness to strangers can have eternal implications beyond our understanding.
b) Blessing others activates God’s favour (Proverbs 11:25):
A generous person is refreshed and will themselves be blessed abundantly.
c) It reflects the heart of Christ (Acts 20:35):
Jesus taught that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
d) Blessing others brings joy and fulfilment (Luke 6:38):
Giving opens the door for God’s abundant returns.
Biblical Example: Elisha honoured the Shunammite woman for her hospitality, and God responded by granting her a son (2 Kings 4:8-17).
The desire to bless others is more than generosity—it is an expression of God’s heart working through us to impact lives eternally.
2. CHARACTERISTICS OF A BLESSING-MINDED PERSON
People who desire to bless others often share key qualities.
a) Compassionate and empathetic (Romans 12:15):
They share in the joys and sorrows of others, responding with kindness.
b) Faithful and consistent (Galatians 6:9):
They do not grow weary in doing good but continue to bless regardless of circumstances.
c) Humble and selfless (Philippians 2:3-4):
They prioritise others’ needs above their own comfort.
d) Generous with resources and time (2 Corinthians 9:7):
Their giving flows from a willing heart, not compulsion.
Biblical Example: The Shunammite woman’s consistent hospitality positioned her for God’s miraculous blessing.
A desire to bless others requires a heart tuned to God’s love and a lifestyle of selfless generosity.
3. THE REWARDS OF DESIRING TO BLESS OTHERS
Blessing others carries spiritual, emotional, and sometimes material rewards.
a) Divine reward and increase (Luke 6:38):
God promises to pour into your life in measure, pressed down and overflowing.
b) Opening of unexpected doors (Genesis 39:21):
Blessing others can shift your circumstances in miraculous ways.
c) Building strong, loving communities (Acts 2:44-47):
Blessing promotes unity and support within the body of Christ.
d) Personal growth in faith and character (James 1:17):
Blessing others draws us closer to the source of all blessings—God Himself.
Biblical Example: The Shunammite woman’s blessing led to the birth of a child, transforming her life and legacy.
When you live with a desire to bless, you unlock blessings that impact generations and glorify God.
CONCLUSION:
The desire to bless others is a powerful spiritual posture that honours God and enriches lives. It requires a heart attuned to God’s love, a willingness to give without expectation, and faith that God will multiply the seed sown. Like the Shunammite woman, your acts of kindness and generosity can trigger divine visitation and miraculous outcomes in your life.
Living to bless others is not only beneficial to those who receive but also profoundly transforms the giver. It aligns you with God’s purpose and invites His favour in every area of your life. Therefore, cultivate a spirit that eagerly desires to bless, knowing that as you do so, heaven rejoices, and God’s blessings return to you abundantly.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, cultivate in me a genuine desire to bless others.
2. Father, help me to see opportunities to show kindness daily.
3. Empower me to bless even when it is difficult or inconvenient.
4. Let my life be a source of blessing to my family, church, and community.
5. Lord, open my eyes to the needs of those around me.
6. Help me to be generous with my time, resources, and love.
7. Break every chain of selfishness and greed in my heart.
8. I receive divine multiplication for every seed of blessing I sow.
9. Bless me to be a blessing that triggers miracles in others’ lives.
10. Let your favour rest upon me as I walk in a blessing mindset.
