In the Bible, the heart of the word “bless” means “to kneel.” It’s bending down to lay hands on someone to declare good things. It’s more than encouragement—it’s agreeing with God’s vision for that person. It’s speaking life into that vision, and provision for the resources to accomplish it.
You have the power, and responsibility, to bless people—including those who would never bless you. You can overcome the negativity of others by staying inside God’s vision for their identity. Stubbornly refusing to leave a position of blessing not only means speaking life into who they are in God, it keeps you from dwelling in miserable judgment of who they are without him.
I know that’s not always easy, especially with people who have hurt you and wouldn’t think twice about doing it again. But blessing doesn’t mean submitting to their abuse. Even if you never meet again, blessing them keeps your heart free from the prison of pain they live in.
Begin each day by blessing your own life. That’s not selfish, it’s a sacred act of aligning your thoughts with God’s. Agree with who he says you are, instead of judging and punishing your failures. Ask him what his vision for your life is right now, and celebrate it with him. Then you’ll have more than enough blessing for those you meet along the way.
“The Lord will bless you and watch over you. The Lord will smile over you, and give you grace. The Lord will show you his favor, and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24–26).
Equip Your Spirit 