What Is the blessing of the Lord focused texts: Gen.1:28; 9:1, 7; Prov.10:22
Introduction: What Is The Blessing Of The Lord
The Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology defines blessing as an endowed power for prosperity and success; a divine empowerment that reflects God’s favor and leads to visible outcomes like peace, abundance, and accomplishment.
It’s important to understand that material things—houses, cars, money, or even children—are not the blessing itself. Instead, they are the results of the blessing in action. In other words, the blessing of the Lord is the invisible force that enables visible success.
It empowers a person to thrive, achieve divine goals, and walk in victory regardless of their circumstances.
So then, what is the blessing of God? It is His supernatural empowerment that brings wholeness, fruitfulness, and favor in every area of life. And when God blesses, no curse can override it.
What Is the Meaning of “Bless the Lord”?
Before we go further, let’s clarify a related phrase found throughout Scripture: “Bless the Lord.” What is the meaning of “bless the Lord”? It may sound puzzling—how can humans bless God? In biblical terms, to bless the Lord means to praise, honor, and exalt Him. It’s a response of gratitude and love, a way to acknowledge His goodness and majesty. While God blesses us with favor and abundance, we bless Him with our worship, obedience, and devotion.
The Nature of the Blessing of the Lord
The blessing of the Lord is not one-dimensional. It’s a five-dimensional release that covers every aspect of human flourishing. These five dimensions are first seen in God’s command to Adam and Eve in Genesis 1:28. They include:
Be Fruitful
- To make fruitful
- To produce results regardless of obstacles
Multiply
- To increase in number and impact
- To expand influence and productivity
Replenish
- To fill, restore, and complete
- To finish assignments and satisfy needs
Subdue
- To overcome resistance
- To bring environments under control
Dominion
- To rule and reign
- To govern spiritually and physically
These five traits form the core of God’s empowerment. When we walk in His blessing, we become productive, increase, complete tasks, overcome opposition, and live with authority.
A Deeper Look at “Be Fruitful”
Among the five dimensions, “Be Fruitful” is foundational. In Hebrew, the word is Parah, which means to make something productive—even forcefully, if needed. It implies not just the ability, but the divine compulsion to produce. This blessing ensures results, even when opposition arises.
Psalm 66:3 says, “Through the greatness of Your power, Your enemies shall submit themselves to You.” This reinforces the idea that God’s blessing carries the power to silence opposition and enforce fruitfulness.
What Is the Commanded Blessing of the Lord?
Psalm 133:3 refers to the commanded blessing of the Lord, which descends upon unity and obedience. This blessing is not random—it is directed, intentional, and unstoppable. When God commands a blessing, it bypasses natural laws, breaks limitations, and creates supernatural results.
This commanded blessing often operates through spiritual principles like prayer, obedience, generosity, and faith. It’s not just an invitation—it’s a divine decree that must be fulfilled.
What is the blessing of the lord Compared with Abraham’s Blessings?
The “blessing of the Lord” and “Abraham’s blessings” are closely connected, but they are not exactly the same. Think of the blessing of the Lord as the source, and Abraham’s blessings as a special expression or example of that source.
Furthermore, the blessings of Abraham are one of the commanded blessing of The Lord. In Galatians 3:14, Paul declares that “the blessing of Abraham” has come upon the Gentiles through Christ. So, what is the blessing of Abraham?
It includes:
- Justification by faith (Genesis 15:6)
- A covenant of multiplication and inheritance (Genesis 17:2-7)
- Possession of land and dominion (Genesis 13:14-17)
- Favor in all nations (Genesis 12:2-3)
Through Jesus, we are heirs of the same promise. The blessing of Abraham now flows to every believer who walks by faith.
How the Blessing Is Released
There are several ways in which God’s power is released to make a person fruitful and prosperous. Let’s explore five key avenues that activate the blessing:
1. The Power of God’s Word (Hebrews 11:11)
God’s word carries creative power. Sarah received strength to conceive because she judged Him faithful who had promised. From Genesis to Revelation, God speaks and creation responds. Consider:
- Genesis 1:3 – “Let there be light.” And there was.
- Psalm 33:9 – “He spoke, and it came to be.”
- John 1:3 – “Through Him all things were made.”
Biblical examples:
- Manoah’s wife and Zechariah received prophetic words.
- Hannah and the Shunammite woman conceived based on declarations from God’s servants.
God’s Word births the blessing.
2. The Holy Spirit (Romans 1:4; 8:11)
The Holy Spirit is the carrier of divine life and power. His presence activates the blessing in seemingly barren places:
- At Creation (Genesis 1:1-3)
- On Aaron’s rod (Numbers 17:7-11)
- In the wilderness (Isaiah 32:15)
- In Peter’s transformation (Luke 22:34, Acts 2)
When the Holy Spirit moves, impossibilities become realities.
3. Acts of Service and Almsgiving
Blessing often follows acts of obedience and generosity. Biblical examples include:
- Zechariah received angelic visitation while serving (Luke 1:7-13)
- Peter loaned his boat and received a miracle catch (Luke 5:1-7)
- Cornelius was remembered for his prayers and gifts (Acts 10:3-5)
Service positions you for receiving the blessing of the Lord.
4. Heartfelt Prayers
Prayer, especially from the head of a household, invites the Lord’s blessings. Consider the below:
- Abraham prayed for an heir (Genesis 15:1-5)
- Isaac prayed for his barren wife (Genesis 25:20-21)
- David blessed his household (2 Samuel 6:20-23)
And don’t forget Hannah’s fervent prayer (1 Samuel 1:10-17) and Elijah’s intercession (James 5:16-17). Prayer births miracles.
5. The Anointing
Isaiah 10:27 states, “The yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing.” Acts 10:38 tells us God anointed Jesus to heal and deliver. The anointing empowers believers to break barriers and walk in God’s blessing.
Hindrances to Receiving the Blessing
Even though the blessing of the Lord is promised, certain factors can delay or obstruct its manifestation:
1. Waiting and Time
Delays test faith. Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” But 1 Thessalonians 5:24 encourages us: “He who calls you is faithful.” Look at Abraham and Sarah or Zechariah and Elizabeth—their patience led to breakthroughs.
2. Life’s Circumstances
Life can be hard. Isaac and Rebekah battled infertility (Genesis 25:20-21). Joseph faced betrayal and prison before reaching power (Genesis 41:52). The blessing eventually overcame every obstacle.
3. Painful Past Experiences
Even great prophets like Elijah faced despair (1 Kings 17-18). Yet God used their darkest moments to reveal His power.
4. Spiritual Blindness
God often speaks in relational terms. He is our Father and Husband (Isaiah 54:5). We must relate to Him in trust, intimacy, and obedience. Stand on Colossians 1:13-14—we’ve been transferred into His kingdom of light.
Conclusion: Living in the Blessing of the Lord
In conclusion, what is the blessing of the Lord? It is the power to prosper, thrive, overcome, and reign in every aspect of life. It is a divine force that brings fruitfulness, multiplication, completion, victory, and dominion. When God blesses, He gives more than things—He gives ability, authority, and favor.
Let us not just seek material results. Instead, let’s pursue the presence of God, obey His Word, walk in unity, and trust His timing. As we do, we’ll not only experience the blessing of God—we’ll become a blessing to others.
Remember: God’s blessing is not random. It’s powerful, it’s promised, and when He commands it—nothing can stop it.
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