Over a year ago, our founding Pastor transitioned out of his position and named his son as the senior Pastor.  What was most profound for me about that moment was the blessing he spoke over his son. He declared words of life over his future and then, passed on the mantle with powerful prayer and anointing.  What a special moment that was to witness!

I imagine the moment must have felt the same as Jacob blessed his grandsons Manasseh and Ephraim in Genesis chapter 48.  He embraced them and spoke over their future. Then, Jacob blessed his sons. As they gathered around him, he told them what would happen in their days to come, “giving each the blessing appropriate to him” (Genesis 49:28).

To speak a blessing over someone means to speak good into their lives and to say what God says about them based on His Word.  One of the most powerful things parents can do for their children is to speak such a blessing over them.

Following is a simple way to do it:

• Look at your children in the eyes and place your hands on them.
• Tell them that God loves them and they are precious in His sight.  
• Thank God for the gifts He has placed in them and how they will be used in the future.
• Declare Scripture over them in a personal way:

You are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14)
You are blessed because you “trust in the LORD” and your “confidence is in Him.” (Jeremiah 17:7)
You “can do all things through Christ who gives you strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
You can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6)

Recently, my husband and my son had the opportunity to spend quality time together. They concluded the time with my husband speaking a blessing over our son. Just hearing about this incredibly special moment brings tears to my eyes. It’s been evident that my son feels empowered to walk forward into his future knowing that he has received these words of life from his Dad.

Friend, when we speak into others, their identity is affirmed and they also receive the confidence to walk into the days to come with hope and excitement. I pray that you are encouraged to speak a blessing over your own children. 

~Joyce