A powerful way to show someone they are accepted, valued, and supported.

Blessing

The word "bless" comes from an old practice of weighing coins to measure their worth — so to bless someone is to add value to their life. The Bible uses the word "bless" nearly 700 times and shows that God is a God of blessing. We receive His blessing and have the privilege of passing it on to others.


There are five basic elements of the blessing that, combined, have tremendous impact.


  • 1. Be committed

    A blessing is not a fleeting moment or mere symbolic event. It includes an active, long- term commitment to the child’s well-being by accepting responsibility to help them become all God intends.

  • 2. Loving touch

    The power of a hug or placing your hand on your child while affirming him or her creates an important physical connection and communicates warmth, acceptance and relational health.

  • 3. Express value

    Just like we add value to someone’s pocket by handing them a coin, we add to a child’s life when we use words that attach high value to them as a person.

  • 4. See potential

    Parents best see a child’s natural strengths and foresee possibilities for their future. Giving a blessing includes picturing a special future and cheering them toward achieving their potential.

  • 5. Say it

    An effective blessing must be put into words whether spoken, written or both. Simply being present

    is not enough to communicate the blessing. Words of affirmation are necessary for the child to know he or she is appreciated and accepted.

Disciple@Home

Blessing

Every child needs to experience a blessing!

Gary Smalley and John Trent
The Blessing

Offering solid, practical advice and a fresh perspective on making this gift a bigger part of our families, The Blessing powerfully communicates these biblically based elements as necessary to prepare children for positive future relationships, including their relationship with a loving God.

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John Trent
Bedtime Blessings

In just a few minutes each night, Bedtime Blessings will help parents practice the biblical model of “blessing” and impart spiritual truths that will last a lifetime. Each bedtime activity is followed by a blessing prayer that will affirm a parent's love and deepen the child's relationship with God.

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I’d
I’d Choose You

Everyone knows what it’s like to have a bad day. And when Norbert comes home from school, he has had a really bad day. As he and his mother talk through the day's mishaps, she gently imparts The Blessing on him through spoken word, meaningful touch, attachment of high value, portraying a special future, and genuine commitment.

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Some ideas to get you started

On the Go Blessings: Speak words of blessing to your child while driving to school, tucking into bed, celebrating an accomplishment or good effort, or writing a note to place in their lunch.

  • You are great because....
  • I was so proud of you when I saw you…
  • I think God is going to use you in the future to…
  • God has gifted you with a unique ability to…


Bedtime Blessing Prayer: Select a special scripture to pray over your child each evening.

Discipleship Resources

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Head back to “The Journey” page to check out even more resources!

The Journey