Arriving at the Summit: Day Two
Day 2: Blessing the One Who Needs Nothing
Devotional
What does it mean to bless God? It seems almost presumptuous. After all, what could we possibly give to the Creator who lacks nothing? When we bless other people, we typically provide something they need—encouragement, help, or resources. But God needs nothing from us. He is complete in Himself, lacking nothing. Yet Psalm 134 calls us to "bless the LORD." This blessing isn't about improving God or adding to His perfection. Rather, it's about acknowledging who He is. When we bless God, we speak good words about Him, declare His greatness, recount His character, and celebrate His works. This understanding transforms our approach to worship. In our consumer culture, we often come to church asking, "What did I get out of that?" instead of "What did I give to the Lord today?" But worship isn't primarily about what we receive—it's about what we offer. Every time we gather, we have the privilege of blessing God through our praise, adoration, and gratitude. We come not with empty hands seeking a handout, but with full hearts ready to give Him the recognition He deserves. Today, shift your perspective from consumption to contribution. Ask not what God can do for you, but what praise you can offer to Him. For in blessing the One who needs nothing, you fulfill your deepest purpose.
you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house,
to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
- 1 Peter 2:5
Reflection Question
How might your worship experience change if you approached it primarily as an opportunity to give praise rather than receive something?
“Our worship services are not first about what we get. It's about what we give.
Our praise, our adoration, our gratitude.”
— Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Father, forgive me for approaching worship with a consumer mindset. Help me come to You with hands lifted in praise rather than outstretched for more. May I find joy in declaring Your greatness and celebrating who You are. Amen.