Kindness

In His Name Devotionals
KINDNESS

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us...” (Ephesians 1:3 NIV)

Paul’s brief doxology identifies God the Father as the ultimate recipient and source of blessing—the One to whom blessing is ascribed and the One Who bestows blessings on those who love Him.

The word, “eulogy,” comes from the same Greek word translated, “blessed.” To bless or eulogize God is to praise Him for His mighty works and holy character.

That should be the response of your heart and mind, just as it has been the response of believers throughout the ages. The psalmist said, “Blessed be God, the God of Israel, who alone works wonders” (Psalm 72:18). Peter said, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).

When the situation is reversed and God blesses you, it is not with praise, for apart from Him there is nothing praiseworthy about mankind. Instead, God gives you undeserved benefits through His many deeds of kindness. Holy Scripture identifies God as the source of every good thing (James 1:17), Who works all things together for your good and His glory (Romans 8:28).

That is but a sampling of the many blessings He lavishes on you in His Son, Jesus Christ. It is a marvelous cycle: God blesses you with deeds of kindness; you bless Him with words of praise.

Beware of the sin of thanklessness. Recognize God’s blessings in your life and let them fill your heart and lips with humble, sincere praise.