Today’s Verse – Mark 9:41

[Jesus promised us,] “I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.”

Mark 9:41

Thoughts on Today’s Verse…

This simple and straightforward passage cuts two ways: First, we are blessed when we bless God’s children, even if the blessing is simple. Second, we can rejoice when others do the simplest things to bless us in Jesus’ name because we receive the kindness and grace of others, and then God blesses that kindness with his overwhelming grace. Bottom line — let’s live to be a blessing! When we do, God is blessed. We are blessed. We bless others. In addition, when others are gracious to us, God has also promised to bless them. God pours his blessings out on all of us. In God’s miraculous economy, the more we bless each other, the more benefits there are for everyone!

My Prayer…

Gracious and loving Father, please use me this week to bless everyone around me. But especially this week, dear Father, please lead me into the life of someone who desperately needs your grace. Please give me discernment to see them when you bring them across my path. Give me the courage to reach out and bless them. Keep them on my heart and help me as I seek to be a long-term blessing to them. In Jesus’ name, I ask for your help and grace to use this opportunity for your glory. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.