Become New with John Ortberg 31. Becoming a Person of Blessing
Mar 10, 2026
A look at blessing as the opposite of condemnation and why we are called to bless even those who hurt us. Practical ways to bless are explored: affirming words, honoring someone’s value, appropriate touch, picturing a hopeful future, and simply showing up. Stories and Scripture illustrate how blessing reshapes relationships and transforms the one who gives it.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Blessing Is The Opposite Of Condemnation
- The opposite of condemnation is active blessing that enhances life and connection.
- John Ortberg emphasizes Jesus calls us to bless even those who curse us, reframing moral response as giving life, not merely restraint.
Yard Sign Morality Replaces Character
- Cultural virtue signaling often replaces character formation with ideological positions or yard-sign morality.
- John Ortberg contrasts easy signaling (politically correct language or deliberate offense) with the harder work of becoming Christlike in love and humility.
Final Note On A Crashing Plane
- A man on a crashing plane wrote last notes to his family, choosing loving words in his final moments.
- Gary Smalley and John Trent use this story to show many never speak lasting words of blessing before it's too late.
