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Numbers 6:24-26 - Famous Godly Blessing.

Numbers 6:24-26 (KJV) The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: 25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: 26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

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.

INTRODUCTION

Referred to as "the Lord's Prayer of the O.T." [Believer's SB]

   The priest's blessing is one of the most familiar and best-loved passages in the Hebrew Bible. Through the centuries, worshipers have found comfort in its brief but profound lines. This famous text is simple and elegant.
   The priest's blessing invokes the Lord's blessing by repeating his name, Yahweh, in each appeal, which is generally translated "the LORD" (see Exodus 3:15). The repetition of God's name reminds God's people of his interest and involvement in their lives. This benediction emphasizes the relationship between God and his people and helps them to remember the source of their blessings. [One Year NLT SB]

A blessing was one way of asking for God's divine favor to rest upon others. The ancient blessing in these verses helps us understand what a blessing was supposed to do. Its five parts conveyed hope that God would (1) bless and protect his people, (2) smile on them (be pleased with them), (3) be gracious (merciful and compassionate) to them, (4) show them his favor (give them his approval), and (5) give them peace. When you ask God to bless others or yourself, in a sense you are asking him to do these five things. The blessing you offer will not only help the person who receives it. It will also encourage others and provide a model of caring to those who are watching. [Life Application SB 2019]

COMMENTARY PEARL

An Unending and Unassailable Love
   History records that the God of heaven is for you. He made you. He sees you. He Himself wants to be your Father, and He wants to shower you with His blessing. He wants to raise you up, show you the ropes, help you grow strong, and cheer you on as you pursue your God-given passion. He wants to put a safety net of His love under you so you can spread your wings and take flight without the crippling fear of failure holding you down.
   The blessing God wants to give you is not to be discounted. In fact, the blessing of your heavenly Father is actually way beyond any human relationship. The best possible earthly father giving the most excellent blessing can't compare to the smile of your heavenly Father. His love is supernatural and powerful, unending and unassailable.
   And His love means this for us: If you know Him as Father, you will never be left behind. You will never go unwanted. You will always have a place of hope and a home with Him.
   God, open my eyes to more intimately understand Your great blessing, how You have gone before and behind me in victory, singing over me with steadfast love. [Grace and Glory by Louie Giglio]

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

Numbers 6:24-26 - Famous Godly Blessing.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20220213-0958.html

Numbers 6:24-26 - The Priestly Blessing.
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2015/20150309-1205.html

Numbers 6:24-26 - The Lord's Prayer of the Old Testament.
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2008/20080110-1053.html