MESSAGE SUMMARY:
This week we discussed “The Blessing”. The Blessing as mentioned in scripture is not a “thing” it is a state of being that all of God’s children are designed to operate in. Once God blesses us, no one can curse us (Num. 23:19-20); it is possible to live outside of the blessing due to our actions. In this week’s discussion, we will learn more about what the blessing is/is not, identify areas in which we are not living “blessed” and gain insight into how we can be a blessing to others. Let’s get started on “The Blessing – Part 2”.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
The Blessing is not transactional, it is not a verb, but it is a “thing” that is placed on our lives. It means “empowered to prosper” and “to release the potential of a thing.” In Genesis 1, God placed all potential within his creation. We too are his creation. God commanded man to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it (Gen. 1:26-27). What does this truth speak to you about God’s desire for you (his creation) to prosper?

The Blessing is a command for the potential of a thing to come forth. However, the blessing comes on the heels of our obedience. Meaning, we must participate with God’s principles to unlock God’s blessing over our lives. Let’s take a look at the “Blessing Principle” in scripture. What do the following verses say about the Blessing and its correlation to our obedience? In what ways is God specifically asking you to partner with him to unlock His blessing in your life? (Psalm 133:1-3, Prov. 16:3,20, Deut. 30:16, Ex. 23:25, Jer. 17:7-8, 1 Pet. 3:8-9)

The blessing is not just for us individually, it is for us collectively as a body of Christ. In the book of Joshua (ch. 7), the children of Israel had to repent, rid themselves of idols, and sanctify themselves, to bring the corporate blessing back. Imagine what would happen in our lives, our families, our church, and our communities when we corporately prioritized this kingdom principle. What could a community operating in the corporate blessing look like?

CONCLUSION:
When our lives align with God’s word, we have no choice but to prosper. God promises to “open us up” (Malachi 3:10) to our gifts, abilities, talents, our potential when we prioritize HIS WILL and HIS WAY. What is one area in which you would like to experience God’s blessing? Take time this week to prioritize this principle by memorizing a scripture in that area. Then look for ways to apply it to a situation you encounter in the coming week and watch what God does on your behalf!

• Want to work on consistent tithing? – Malachi 3:10-12,
• Want to purify yourself of past sin? – Deut. 30:15-17
• Need help trusting God with a situation? – Psalm 37:3, Jer. 17:7-8.
• Want to work through unforgiveness? – Psalm 133:1-3, 1 Pet. 3:8-9, Prov. 16:3,20