Humble people lead by example. They bless others around them, not because they are trying to manipulate or look good, but because they have a humble nature. Humility is a fruit of the Sprit and illustrates how God is at work in their heart.
When Moses was about to die, God chose Joshua as his successor. In this transition, God wanted Moses to bless Joshua, which he did. Num.27:18 The Lord replied, “Take Joshua son of Nun, who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. 19 Present him to Eleazar the priest before the whole community, and publicly commission him to lead the people. 20 Transfer some of your authority to him so the whole community of Israel will obey him.[1]
Moses was able to bless Joshua because he was led by the Holy Spirit. Moses also received a blessing by being able to bestow such a blessing. Sometimes we only think of the person who received the blessing as the one being blessed. We often don’t realize the blessing comes from blessing others.
Who is around you that you could bless or be a blessing to? Here are four simple ways any of us can be a blessing to others.
Pray for Someone: Talking to God on another’s behalf can move major mountains. We can be very selfish sometimes when it comes to prayer. It is not uncommon for our personal prayers to be quite self-centered. (I am speaking from personal experience) Interceding for others forces us to take our minds off of ourselves and turn them to others.
Just listen: Sometimes all someone needs is a listening ear. They just need someone to talk to and confide in. They need someone who will listen without judging. You’d be surprised to know how many people take their own lives each year because they feel so alone, hopeless, or misunderstood. You could be a lifeline to someone and not realize it.
Offer words of encouragement: Simply encouraging others to keep on keeping on can be more of a help than you might imagine. There is not a day that goes by that we couldn’t benefit from some encouragement. Some days we need more encouragement than others. Sometimes we just need to hear someone else say “It’s going to be alright”.
Volunteer: It won’t cost you a thing. Just an hour or two of your time will make an impact on someone for a lifetime. Being a volunteer at a local school has been one of the greatest gifts the Lord has given me. Just look at God’s extravagant promise. 1 Cor. 9:8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.[2]
To hear how Moses blessed Joshua, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/series/the-footsteps-of-moses/passing-the-mantle
[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.