A Devotion from Ira B. Wilson

Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is

destroyed. (Proverbs 11:11)

We are of little value to our Lord if we do not produce fruit for Him. In fact, the command of

Scripture is to bear “much fruit.” Regardless of the task to which God calls us, whether it be

great or small, it will receive His promised blessing when we do it faithfully and with sincere

motives. The Scriptures also teach that our deeds of compassion and mercy must be done with

cheerfulness, never simply out of duty (Romans 12:8). St. Francis of Assisi said, “It is not fitting

when one is in God’s service to have a gloomy face or a chilling look.” Representing Christ and

serving others must become a normal, happy lifestyle as we “carry the sunshine where

darkness is rife.”

The text of this hymn was written in 1909 by Ira Wilson, a musician associated for many

years with the Lorenz Publishing Company, serving as editor of the popular periodicals for

church choirs, The Choir Leader and The Choir Herald. The music for the hymn was added 15

years later by George Schuler, who served for more than 40 years in the music department of

the Moody Bible Institute. Throughout his lifetime Mr. Schuler contributed much fine music for

both vocal and keyboard use. “Make Me a Blessing” was first introduced in 1924 at a Sunday

school convention in Cleveland, Ohio, where Schuler had 1,000 copies of the song printed for

the occasion. It was received with much enthusiasm, and these words have since been widely

used to challenge believers to make their lives useful to God.

Out in the highways and byways of life many are weary and sad; carry the sunshine

where darkness is rife, making the sorrowing glad.

Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love. Tell of His pow’r to forgive; others will

trust Him if only you prove true every moment you live.

Give as ’twas given to you in your need. Love as the Master loved you; be to the

helpless a helper indeed; unto your mission be true.

Chorus: Make me a blessing, make me a blessing! Out of my life may Jesus shine.

Make me a blessing, O Savior, I pray. Make me a blessing to someone today.