Curses That Block Blessing

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010

Today's Passage: 1 John 4: 7-21
Memory Verse: 1 John 4:7-8

The Bible says we should honor our parents in order to have longer days. Is it possible that obedience could be the key to long life? One of the curses that block blessing is dishonoring our mother and father. In what ways can we bring honor to our parents? Well, let's start with defining the word. Honor is honesty, respect, bringing high esteem to, and integrity. In a nutshell, when we become people who are honest, respectful, full of confidence, and self-assured, we bring honor to our parents. It says we've had a "good" upbringing. It also says we have a good covering. See, God wants us to honor our parents because honoring "them" brings glory to Him. Yes, mannerable children are perfect reflections of a famous God. If you're an adult, it's never too late to start honoring your parents if they are still living.  Even if they're not, God will place elders in your life that He'll expect you to honor as if they were your earthly parents.  Doing so will extend your days and allow you to walk in the blessings of God.

The next curse that blocks blessing is racism. It amazes me that people go to church Sunday after Sunday with racial issues in their heart. It's as if they think God's going to finally reveal who the true master race is once we get to Heaven. Well, He is. Only He's going to reveal it's the "human" race. And only those who have been totally devoted will be rewarded by Him. We've talked about this issue before on this blog. Racism is an ugly spirit sent to divide mankind so the devil can conquer mankind. We cannot be followers of Christ and oppress, neglect, hurt, or curse His creation. There'll be no racial division in Heaven, folks. So, there shouldn't be any on Earth. John asked the question: "How can you love God who you have not seen, but hate your brother who you see everyday?" (1 John 4:20). The answer is, it's not possible. So don't have your blessings blocked because of something as foolish as racism. Love God and man with all your heart and the blessing of the Lord is yours. Remember, He said it is in unity He commands the "blessing": life forever more.

Prayer: Father I know that honoring my mother and father is important to You, because Jesus honored You in everything He did.  Give me the grace to honor those whom You've put in my life, and to show love to those who still don't know that You love them.  Help me to walk out true love that is patient, kind, not easily provoked, and longsuffering.  As I walk in this kind of love, get the glory and allow me to make You famous all the days of my life.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.