Blessed to Be a Blessing
The Daily Devotional
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Blessed to Be a Blessing
But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. (Luke 6:27-28)
Introduction
In his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. proclaimed, “Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty, I’m free at last.” His words still resonate today, reminding us that true freedom is found not just in political liberty but in the freedom that comes from living in the light of Christ.
As believers, we stand at the empty tomb on Easter morning, knowing that Christ has set us free. But what does it truly mean to live in this freedom? Jesus calls us to a radical way of life—one where we bless even those who mistreat us, give generously without expecting anything in return, and love even our enemies. This is not an easy path, but it is the way of Christ.
Freedom in Christ
Because of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, we are no longer enslaved to sin. Our salvation is secure, and nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). We are not bound by society’s expectations, nor are we controlled by the pursuit of wealth, power, or approval. Instead, we are free to live boldly, knowing that God will provide for all our needs.
This freedom is not meant to be hoarded but shared. We are blessed so that we might bless others. We are loved so that we might love the unlovable. We are forgiven so that we might extend forgiveness to those who wrong us.
A Different Way of Living
Jesus calls us to a life that goes against human instincts. Instead of repaying evil with evil, He commands us to love, bless, and pray for those who harm us. Instead of giving to those who can repay, He instructs us to give freely, trusting in God's provision. This is the economy of God's kingdom—one of generosity, mercy, and grace.
In ancient Israel, farmers were instructed to leave the edges of their fields unharvested so that the poor and the traveler could gather food (Leviticus 19:9-10). This principle teaches us that our blessings are not just for ourselves but for those around us. We are stewards, not owners, of God’s gifts.
The Christian Farmer
A Christian farmer in China experienced this firsthand. He farmed a plot on a hillside, carrying water from a lake below to irrigate his land. However, his non-Christian neighbor, whose land was just below his, would tear down the barriers and let the water flow onto his own fields, stealing the farmer's hard-earned work.
At first, the Christian farmer did nothing, choosing to endure the injustice. But over time, resentment built up in his heart. He prayed, asking God for wisdom. The Lord convicted him to take a radical approach. Instead of harboring bitterness, the farmer began carrying water not just for his own field but for his neighbor’s as well. He did this day after day, showing kindness instead of seeking revenge.
Eventually, the non-Christian farmer was so moved by this act of love that he asked why the Christian would do such a thing. The farmer shared the Gospel with him, and the neighbor gave his life to Christ.
This is what it means to be a blessing. When we respond to evil with love, generosity, and grace, we become a witness to the transforming power of God.
Application
1. Bless others with your words – Speak kindness and encouragement, even to those who may not deserve it.
2. Give generously – Not just from your abundance, but sacrificially, trusting in God's provision.
3. Love your enemies – Respond to mistreatment with grace, and pray for those who wrong you.
4. Live freely in Christ – Do not allow fear, resentment, or the pursuit of material gain to control your heart.
Conclusion
The cross of Christ is the ultimate sign of God's abundant love. Jesus poured out His life for us, holding nothing back. As His followers, we are called to do the same—not just for those who love us, but for everyone, including those who oppose us.
When we live this way, we experience a freedom unlike anything the world can offer. Our lives become a reflection of Christ, and through us, the world sees His grace and mercy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You have blessed us so abundantly. Help us to live not for ourselves but for Your glory. Teach us to love as You love, to give as You give, and to bless even those who do not bless us in return. Fill us with Your Spirit, so that our lives may be a testimony of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
