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“And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. “ -Luke 11:27-28

   Jesus had been teaching and explaining the result of a man that has been cleansed of an unclean spirit who did not replace the void with God but rather just continued on his path. The unclean spirit returned and because it had no resistance it returned to the possess the man and brought seven more spirits like itself.

   During His message a woman in the crowd spoke up as noted in the opening verse. Blessed is the one who gave birth to you and nursed you. Her comment was not meant to be negative and she was probably just thinking of the mother of such a man would be very proud. Jesus, however, used this opportunity to make a very profound statement. He replied yes she is blessed but there is a greater blessing to be had.

   We know only one can give birth to Jesus, only one can have the opportunity to nurse Him and raise Him. If this was the greatest blessing then we have no chance to obtain it but Jesus reminded her and the others the greatest blessing is within reach of every believer.

   Hearing the Word of God and obeying it. That is the path to the greatest blessing. Simple obedience is the path to blessing. It costs no money and basically our time and control of our lives are what we give up to gain a blessing from the Creator of all.

   The disciples were even given the ability to cast our devils. I’ve never cast out a devil and I’m not sure that is something I will ever do. If the greatest blessing is such a gift, then again, most Christians would miss out.

Jesus spoke on this concept as well to remind us of what is important.

“Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” -Luke 10:20

   The greatest blessing is knowing Jesus as Savior and greatest joy comes from following the leadership of the Spirit of God. This is available to you and I if we but choose Jesus.