“Be grateful for those who have helped you in the past. Rejoice over how I have provided for you. Give to others with selfless abandon. Speak life-giving words into those around you. Deeply love everyone that is near you. Bless your mate. Bless your children. Bless your parents. Bless your friends. Make a practice of rejoicing in My love for you. I will bless you.”

Psalm 111:2 NIV

Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them.

Isaiah 40:1 NIV

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.

My family and I were walking into a restaurant in South Florida early one evening. We were just in front of a young man who we found out later worked there. As we were walking into the building with this man right behind us, the Lord told me to turn around and bless him. The thought gave me cause to hesitate a moment because this man did not look friendly and carried a street presence that usually signifies a gang association.

When I turned around, the man stopped with surprise. Before he could do anything, the Lord directed me to put my hand on his chest and speak wealth into his spirit. I was directed to tell him that he was valuable, that God had a plan for his life; and that Jesus loved him. He was so surprised and taken aback that all he could say was a weak “thank you.” When he did, his head was down and he looked like a little child. I believe that few people, if any one at all, had ever affirmed his worth to him.

For the time we were at the restaurant, we observed him glancing at us with a questioning look every time he had the opportunity while he did his work. I think that he will remember that moment for the rest of his life. Such a small thing to do, but such a major event in someone’s life.

Show me how to bless others, Lord,

Jim Corbett