“Original blessing precedes original sin, and that sequence is not insignificant. It sets the tone. It sets the table. God’s default setting is blessing! Blessing is His mort ancient instinct. It’s who God is. It’s what God does.”- Mark Batterson
“So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them.”- Genesis 1:27-28 (NLT)
Mark Batterson concludes Chapter 5 of Please Sorry Thanks with a description of blessing as the deepest longing of the human heart. Because it’s our oldest collective memory. After God created humankind in His image, the first thing He did was to bless Adam and Eve.
So, Pastor Batterson asks, what first comes to your mind when you think about God? How do you picture God’s posture toward you? What expression do you envision God wearing on His face? And what tone of voice do you hear when He speaks?
Unfortunately, Mark observes, we tend to create God in our image. As a result, we project our predispositions and prejudices, our inclinations and imperfections, on God. Hence, we wind up with a God who looks a great deal like us! Above all, it’s a fake image – an idol.
Therefore, Mark states, if you see a frown on God’s face, you’re projecting your frustration. However, if you see smile lines around God’s eyes and He’s reaching toward you with arms wide open, Mark believes, you’re much closer to the truth.
In conclusion, Pastor Batterson counsels:
“You will become who you listen to! According to Laurie Beth Jones, at least 40 percent of our lives are based on personal prophecies! We are profoundly shaped, for better or for worse, by what’s said about us. Why not give God the last word? While you’re at it, why not give God the first word?”
And there’s a special power in a spoken declaration of faith.
Today’s question: How does original blessing set the tone in your life? Please share.
Coming Monday: the July Short Meditation, “No standing still in the Spirit”
Tomorrow’s blog: “Holy curiosity of childhood”
