Session 7

How to set the stage for blessing

From Genesis: A 7-Week Devotional

Every year the stage is set for the NFL Draft. Players wait in the green room to hear their name called. The joy on each player’s face is indescribable as they don the hat and embrace the moment of becoming an NFL player.

Many watch with the aspiration to be on that stage one day, and some watch with jealousy, saying, “I wish that could be me.” What we don’t see that night are the hours of obedience it took to receive that blessing.

To reach the top of the profession, there are no shortcuts. It takes obedience. For an NFL player, it takes hours in the weight room, film room, and practice field when no one is watching. If we want God’s blessing, we have to ask ourselves, are we putting in the work?

In Genesis 13, Abram looks out at the land he will eventually inherit. His obedience in going where God told him, building an altar to worship God, and continuing on to the Negev set the stage for Abram to be blessed beyond his means (Genesis 12:4-9, Genesis 13:1). Psalm 112:1-3 says, “Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands.”

We serve a loving God who wants us to be joyful. He wants to bless us more than we can imagine. We can find great delight in God’s commands because following them leads to rewards.

Blessings begin to flow out of obedience. If we’re desperate to see God bless our dating relationships, are we pursuing purity? If we’re desperate for a promotion at work, are we displaying a work ethic and conduct that honors God?

Following God protects us from ourselves. When we experience the awe and wonder of who God is and what He wants for us, we begin following Him from the belief that His commands are for our good.

By trusting in God’s Word, our stage will be set to reap future rewards.

Reflect:

• In what area of your life do you want more blessing? Are you being obedient in that area?
• What needs to change to set the stage for those blessings?