Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and observe it - Luke 11:28
Whenever the Scriptures speak of a person being “blessed,” it usually refers to the receiving of some temporal or spiritual benefit. It also includes the joy and sense of well-being that comes with knowing that God is at work on our behalf.
The psalmist wrote, “How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers” Psalm 1:1–2. Those who know and obey God’s Word will be blessed. The psalmist likened them to a strong, productive, prosperous tree.
James adds, “One who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man shall be blessed in what he does” James 1:25. Again, the very act of obedience brings blessing.
As Christians, we’ve been blessed “with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). Every spiritual resource is ours. Even in times of sorrow and trouble, God’s blessing rests on us. But we can forfeit His blessings by neglecting His Word or by committing other sinful acts. So may we guard our hearts carefully, and continue daily in the Word. As we do, our joy will be boundless.
Contributed by Alex Townsend