The Lord Bless You

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Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

“ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’

Devotion:

Devotion:

The words in Numbers 6:24-26 are often referred to as the Aaronic Blessing, a benediction God gave to Moses to instruct Aaron and his sons on how to bless the Israelites. These verses encapsulate a profound sense of divine care and favor, making them timeless and ever-relevant for believers seeking solace and assurance in God's promises.

The blessing begins with the phrase, "The Lord bless you and keep you." This is more than just a wish for good fortune; it invokes God's direct action in our lives. To be blessed by the Lord means to receive His favor, which encompasses all aspects of our existence, spiritual and physical. To be kept by Him means to be preserved and protected from harm. This assurance of divine guardianship is comforting in times of uncertainty and danger.

Following this, the blessing states, "The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you." The imagery of God's face shining upon us signifies His presence and approval. It evokes the warmth and light that dispels darkness and fear. When God's face shines on us, He is looking upon us with love and favor. Moreover, His graciousness implies His kindness and mercy, showered upon us not because we deserve it, but because of His unending love.

The blessing concludes with, "The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." This closing element of the blessing is a promise of peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding. The deep, abiding peace comes from knowing God is with us, for us, and in us. When God turns His face toward us, it indicates His attentive care and unwavering focus on our well-being.

Prayer:

            Lord, bless us with this prayer just as you blessed your people Israel in the time of Aaron and Moses. May we always look toward you for blessing in times of trouble or in times of peace and prosperity, knowing that you are in control of our lives in both situations. Help us to carry this blessing to all those whom we need. Bless us today, Amen.

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