Numbers 6:24-26. “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: the Lord make His face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: the Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
THE BLESSING. Hope conveyed – divine favor asked for the benefit of another – a blessing: Please Lord! “Bless and keep” them – favor and protect them – there are so many pitfalls. They need a hedge around them and the gaps all filled in so the enemy cannot enter. Make the joy of Thy blessing a reality that they cannot miss or ignore.
“Make Thy face to shine” upon them – look upon them with pleasure. Give the delight of heavenly light – surpassing any light of earth or men. Let the darkness flee from them because of the light of Thy countenance. Give them a glimpse of the light of Thy glory and grace – be pleased to do this.
“Be gracious unto them” – they may not understand the peril they are in. Let the evidence of Thy grace turn them back; away from all other attractions. Stop them from ignoring the obvious – the mercy directed toward them for a lifetime. Even though they seem oblivious – be merciful and compassionate toward them.
“Lift up Thy countenance upon them” lest they forget it is in Thee they live and move. Let them be reminded of the evidence of a gracious God at every turn. Challenge them to turn towards Thee as Thou dost turn toward them. Have them to want more than anything – Thy divine approval.
“Give them peace” – real peace; not peace like the world gives or wants, but the real thing. Peace like a river flowing from Thy throne has to be experienced, not explained. Let the “peace of God” fill their hearts and minds – and let it show to others. This blessing I ask for others – I have enjoyed myself. Thanks, from a grateful heart.
May this blessing I ask for others, be a benefit to them, and others through them. May this blessing demonstrate to the world through them, and me, Thy love. May this blessing encourage any who come under the influence of this divine balm. May the enjoyment of this blessing provide a model of caring that brings glory to Thee and Thy great name.
“O gracious Father, I ask this ancient blessing to be as updated as today, upon those we seek to reach on this Lord’s Day and on this first day of a new Gospel series. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”