“The Blessings of the Lord: Transformation Over Transaction”
“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” – Proverbs 10:22 (KJV)
BY P. MICHAEL.
There are indeed two kinds of blessings that men pursue in life. The first is the blessing that comes from being in divine alignment — walking in obedience, surrender, and purpose with God. This is the blessing that transforms you, not just your circumstances. The second is the blessing that comes through the efforts of man — by diligence, intelligence, or strategy. While it may bring temporary results, it often lacks the eternal seal and peace that only God gives.
Jacob’s story is a perfect mirror of these two dimensions. He left Laban’s house with material wealth, wives, children, and servants — the fruit of years of labor and cunning. But as he prepared to meet his estranged brother Esau, something deeper in him cried out. He knew what he had was not enough. He knew he had possessions, but not yet identity. He had things, but not transformation. So he wrestled with the angel of the Lord and said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” – Genesis 32:26.
What kind of blessing was Jacob seeking when he already had so much? It was the blessing that redefines a man — the kind that changes your name, your nature, and your future. The angel responded, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.” – Genesis 32:28.
This encounter shows us that the true blessing of God is not merely material — it is transformational. The real evidence of divine blessing is a changed name (identity), a renewed mind, and a reformed character. Jacob became Israel — not just a man of wealth, but a nation, a patriarch of purpose.
Many today pursue advancement without transformation. But advancement without inner renewal is not a blessing; it’s a burden dressed in achievement. A new level requires a new name, a new character, and a new walk with God.
Until what you have changes who you are, you haven’t truly been blessed. A blessing that leaves your attitude, integrity, and lifestyle untouched is questionable. The blessing of the Lord is holistic — it changes how you see, how you speak, how you treat others, and how you walk before God.
Paul echoed this in Romans 12:2 – “Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind…” You cannot carry divine destiny with an old identity. True blessings demand transformation.
So today, don’t just ask God for more things — ask Him to bless you indeed, like Jabez did (1 Chronicles 4:10), and let that blessing mark a turning point in your life.
Let us hunger not just for increase, but for inner change. Not just for elevation, but for encounter. And like Jacob, may we say: “I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.” – Genesis 32:30.
