Thursday 15th January

Quiet your heart and mind. Imagine going with Jesus to a quiet place. Humbly kneel at Jesus’ feet.

“Come and see what God has done, his awesome deeds for mankind!"

Psalm 66:5

Ponder: Jesus “took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them (Mark 10:16)." Imagine that you are one of those children.

Scripture

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.

3 John 1:2

First, imagine Jesus is focusing on you, looking you right in the eye, and holding out a gift for you. Hear Him pray this over you. Read the blessing again slowly. What do you notice?

Encouragement and Care in a Prayer of Blessing

As we pray for others, what an encouragement it is to pray a blessing over them. This is exactly how John begins his letter to his dear friend, Gaius.

Gaius is facing a stressful challenge in the church. Yet before addressing the struggle, John cares for his friend first. His encouragement is heartfelt and genuine because, as his close friend, he knows Gaius’ strong faith. Also, he acknowledges that fellow believers have witnessed Gaius’ faithfulness and how he continues to walk in the truth (v.3).

John prays that all may go well for Gaius, including good health, just as it is well with his soul. John’s words aren’t just to flatter or spread cheer. He affirms Gaius’ faithfulness to truth as what holds him regardless of the challenges that come his way. We bless others by telling them of the faithfulness we see in their lives.

What can a blessing mean to those around you? What does it mean to you? Just like John, the pen and paper await, or email, as it may be for us today. Or, as John writes in verse fourteen, the desire is to see him face to face. Who can you write a blessing to or invite to coffee and bless them in person? Ask God to show you who might need a prayer of blessing and speak life-giving encouragement over them.

Susan McCrary, Europe Member Care Coordinator, Spain

Now ask God who you can pray this prayer for. Imagine them sitting on Jesus’ knee as you pray.

Kids’ Question: What qualities do you look for in friends? Could you encourage a friend who displays those qualities today?