Releasing the Blessing!

Matthew 14.18-21

Blessing – Greek word eulogeo lit., "to speak well of" (eu, "well," logos, "a word")
Indicates an act of praise, consecration, and petition.

Blessings are released through an act of Praise
(Ex) Jesus assessed the situation – he seated the people in an orderly fashion- he obviously knew the exact extent of the need and what it would take to meet the need.

(AP) Now that you are becoming aware that God wishes to bless you and you need it – have you ever taken time to accurately assess your situation?

(IL) Many who are known for receiving great answers to prayer (George Muller, J. Hudison Taylor) carefully recorded their needs and God responses.
If you will assess your situation you will begin to notice what happens to you both small and large, as answers to your prayers.

Blessings are released though an act of consecration

(Ex)verse 19 -…and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks
Jesus sought the mind of God – Jesus recognized the Father as the source of supply – he had already conformed to the revealed will of the Father – (obviously take the small portion and feed the people)

(AP) we must seek a word from the Lord concerning his willingness to bless and the manner of behavior he will bless…
(IL) Moses and the rock…
We must seek the Mind of God and act on His promptings

Blessings are released through an act of petition
GO Back: Blessing – (Greek word) indicates an act of praise, consecration, and petition.
Jesus blessed God and requested a blessing on the food (object of need)

Our prayers for blessing should include Praise, Consecration, and Petition
Praising Him builds our faith
Consecration is offering our self to Him to use however He wishes (Settles the issue of Lordship)
Now we are ready for making an effective Petition

Bessings are released through an act of obedience
Ex: Jesus gave to the disciples and they gave to the people – not only did Jesus ask for the blessing he was involved in the blessing

(AP): when we ask the Lord to bless certain people or activities we must remember that God may want us to be the channel of blessing.

“Lord, If I am to be the channel of blessing for you blessing to this missionary, show me, and I will act accordingly.”
The blessed food still had to be passed throughout the crowd.

(What do you want to happen in your life (in your family, your church, workplace, your community) that goes beyond what human resources can accomplish?

(Message notes from January 16, 2011 True North Church)