New Book Explores the Virtues of Verbal Blessings
by Allie Martin
April 27, 2005
(AgapePress) - A Christian teacher and author says believers need to realize the impact their words have. In his latest book, The Power of Spoken Blessings (Multnomah, 2004), Bill Gothard says many believers do not understand the power that their words can wield in the lives of others.Gothard is founder and president of The Institute in Basic Life Principles in Oak Brook, Illinois. During his years as head of a ministry dedicated to serving youth and families, he has identified a number of biblical guidelines that he believes will, when followed, result in harmonious relationships in all areas of life.
The Christian teacher's latest book focuses on principles involved in the act of blessing -- the actual utterance of words that bless. For example, he says he has learned to bless those who insult him.
"A blessing neutralizes a curse," Gothard says. "When somebody reviles me, if I don't bless them right away I get emotional inside -- but when I bless them with the qualities I know they need, then all of a sudden I don't have any more ill feeling. In fact, I have a love for them."
A verbal blessing is made up of three powerful forces, the author notes, including "our words, God's words, and God's name." But he is quick to add that the biblical use of spoken blessings does not lend itself to the so-called "name it, claim it" gospel.
"Job blessed [God] when he lost everything," Gothard explains. "When we're blessing other people, it's not for our gain. If our goal is to personally profit from this, then we're totally on the wrong track. But if we are purposing to bless the lives of others, to bless our wives and children and others, then that's what this book is all about."
Verbal blessings can bring healing to those who are hurting, transform attitudes and actions, and even restore broken relationships, Gothard contends. Through his book, he hopes to help fellow believers tap into a source of spiritual power that is already at the tip of their tongues.
Allie Martin, a regular contributor to AgapePress, is a reporter for American Family Radio News, which can be heard online.
