Jesus was affirmed and blessed by his father. “This is my son, in whom I am well pleased.” If Jesus needed that … how much more do your children and the next generation need that?
The father’s blessing has great power. It is a marking point, a defining moment in your child's life.
Most of us as men didn’t have that growing up. I prayed for a grown man the other day who told me later, “I’ve never had an affirming prayer over me like that since I became a Christian … ten years ago.”
Wow … we all need that.
If you’re single – your nephews and nieces need it. If you know a young man who doesn’t have a father active in his life – he needs this same blessing....and you can give it.
You can call him, text him, send a note. But do something that sets his heart toward Jesus.
If it’s your child – do it in person. Then lay hands on their heads and pray over them – doesn’t have to be long or eloquent – just from the heart.
Here’s a model I’ve used for my grandchildren. You can give this to them as a letter, read it, send it. Whatever – just do it. Put it in your own words or use this;
“I’ve had the privilege and blessing to watch you grow into the young man (woman) you are today. I am so very proud of you. You are a bright light in a world that desperately needs brighter days. And needs the hope that you carry in you.
There’s a blessing that God gave to Moses for the people of Israel.
It’s a blessing that has been passed down for generations.
I pray this same blessing over you.
May the Lord bless you and watch, guard, and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you; The Lord lift up His [approving] countenance upon you and give you peace (tranquility of heart and life continually).” (Numbers 6:24-26)
Then God said to Moses, “Put my name on your children, and I will bless them.”
So today I put the name of the Lord Jesus Christ on you. I earnestly pray his love, grace and favor over you. I pray God’s protection over your heart and soul.
My favorite scripture for our family is (your scripture)
I want you to know that you are chosen and dearly loved by God the Father. Nothing can separate you from His love (Romans 8:38–39).
And one of the greatest promises is found in Jeremiah 29:11. It was written to people that were in slavery, nothing was going right, times were tough… but God gave them hope with this word;
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
I bless you. Rise up and live your life with passion, joy and strength. God brought you to me. You are [in my family/in my life] for a reason. You are special, gifted in ways like no one else and with a purpose that only you can accomplish. So I bless you and I bless your destiny as you bring light to a dark world.“
Your son needs this. Your daughter needs this. There’s a young man in your world who needs this prayer from you.
Let’s be the men who bless the nations - and let's start in our own homes.
