Anytime you see this symbol, you can take notes. At the end, you can send these notes to yourself to save them.
Main Scripture Passage:
The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.” —Genesis 12:1-3, NLT
Getting Started
- Find a Partner (or a couple) to journey with
- Identify 8 people you consider neighbors (not necessarily geographically)
Blessing & Loving Neighbors
The meaning of the noun “blessing” in our culture generally means (1) to say a blessing over a meal and (2) when something has God’s favor and protection.
Jesus Blessed Everyone
For John didn’t spend his time eating and drinking, and you say, ‘He’s possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, ‘He’s a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!’ But wisdom is shown to be right by its results.” —Matthew 11:16–19, NLT
For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. —Luke 19:10, NLT
What We Don’t Know
B.L.E.S.S. - Discussion Questions
These questions come from the book used in this series to help us love our neighbors
Bless: 5 Everyday Ways to Love Your Neighbor and Change the World by Dave & Jon Ferguson.
- How did you first learn about the love of Jesus and choose to follow Him?
- What is your greatest fear or frustration when it comes to loving people and sharing the good news of Jesus with those around you?
- How well do you exhibit these qualities to your friends and neighbors who don’t know Jesus? What steps can you take to grow in these areas? Jesus’s nickname was “friend of sinners” (Matthew 11:16–19 NIV). What changes might you need to make in order to be known as a friend of sinners?
- Who are some of the people around you that you would love to impact with the love of Jesus?
- Are you more naturally a “blesser” or “converter” when it comes to reaching people who are far from God?
- Who in your life has been the greatest B.L.E.S.S.ing to you in your spiritual journey? How can you begin to emulate his or her approach as you seek to reach the people around you?
- Pray for the people you hope to B.L.E.S.S.