We live in a self-centered, me-focused culture. Men especially are told to get the most out of life, make their money go further, and use their networks to get a better job. The fact that you’re looking for how to bless others shows that you realize it’s all about giving.
Why should we learn how to bless others?
Ephesians 1:3 tells followers of Jesus that God has “blessed us in heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” And because we’ve been blessed so generously by God, we have a lot to give others. As 2nd Corinthians 9:11 says, we are “enriched in every way so that we can be generous on every occasion.”
Matthew 10:8 puts these ideas together into one simple, powerful command: “Freely you have received; freely give.”
What is a Blessing?
I have described receiving God’s blessing before. His blessings are any kindness, mercy or good thing that comes from God. To bless others is to extend those good things from God.
But even if you want to bless others, you might not know how to go about it—especially as a man. A lot of us have been taught to bottle our feelings up and not show any weaknesses. It can be harder to see a need in other guys and bless them with the kindness they need. That’s why it’s so important for men to open up and find intentional friendship. Ask God every day and stay on the lookout for opportunities to bless others.
Biblical Ideas About Blessings
- Bear spiritual fruit: In John 15:5, Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and branches to describe how believers cannot do anything unless they “remain in him.” By relying on God and keeping him at the center of our focus, God will use us to produce good things. Referencing this scripture, Paul summarizes the fruit of the spirit as “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). The moral? Focus on God and watch him transform your relationships with others.
- God’s standard of loving others: In our world, people have a whole lot of justifications for why they treat others badly (“they started it” or “they deserved it,” sound familiar?). But Jesus tells us to “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This essential piece of advice can guide as we navigate conflict with friends, family and strangers. Denying your natural inclination to be selfish or respond harshly and choosing graciousness and love can be a big blessing in difficult situations—when it matters most, you could say. But Jesus calls us to an even higher standard when He gives us His new commandment, “Love others, as I have loved you.” That means why must study His perfect example, and try our best to carry it out for others.
- Take care of those in need. Whether it’s friends or family or a stranger, God expects us to treat those in need as if they were Jesus Himself. As Matthew 25:36-40 explains, He will tell the righteous, “I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’… Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”
10 Ways to Bless Others
- Be intentional about spending time with someone.
- Volunteer your time, attention and effort by serving the needy or the homeless community.
- Ask God to put someone on your heart and pray for that person.
- Give a friend or loved one a ride to the airport.
- Be encouraging with your words—tell someone that you are proud of them.
- Serve someone their favorite meal.
- Bring a hot drink on a cold day (or a cold drink on a hot day).
- Ask someone about their day and really listen to their answer. Alleviate any burdens by sharing your own struggles or offering words of encouragement.
- Pay close attention to what someone likes—then surprise them by getting it for them without them asking.
- Go with someone to a doctor’s appointment (or any event) that they’re nervous about for support.
Do you want to bless your friends and let God deepen your relationships? Get my free gift and download my Playbook for Level 5 Friendship.
