Friday, January 4, 2008

Choose To Bless - Don Moen


Proverbs 4:22 tells us that the power of life and death is in the tongue. Have you ever analyzed the things you say about yourself or about others? James 3:5 tells us that the tongue is a small member of our body, yet it is so powerful that it is difficult to tame. Think about it. Your tongue is a rudder that can steer your life and the lives of your children and loved ones! Many of the things we say are said without thinking of the negativity those words carry.

Since our children have been babies, and even when Laura was carrying them, we have spoken a blessing over them almost every night of their lives. It's one that contains many scriptures and some of our positive thoughts as well. Before I bless them, I usually tell them that the words I am about to speak over them contain life and health. I also tell them that God's word contains the power to fulfill just what it says. It will not return void but will accomplish the purpose for which it is sent (Isaiah 55:11). This is what I say to them every night:

"You're blessed when you come in, you're blessed when you go out.
You're the head and not the tail, above and not beneath.
You are the righteousness of God in Christ and you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
You're winners and not losers!
You're more than conquerors.
You're walking in favor with God and man and in every good thing from God.
Your bodies operate in perfection, just the way God ordained them to and you're walking in divine health.
Our God will supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God and are called according to His purpose.
Lord, You will show us the path of life.
In Your presence is fullness of joy and at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore, for Melissa, Michael, Rachel, John, James, Mom and Dad."

It's amazing how all of the children, even now, look forward to (and wait for) that blessing. This was a lot easier when the children were small and could crowd into one room for our prayers and the "blessing". Now that they are older and go to bed at different times I sometimes end up pronouncing this blessing five times in one night!

I encourage you to try this with your children or loved ones. Write your own blessing that contains some of your favorite scriptures. You're also welcome to use ours if you want; just to get you started! Choose to speak life over your loved ones! It will make an incredible difference in their lives and yours.


©2000 by Don Moen

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