Numbers 4 - 6

The Priest's Blessing
Today's portion contains one of the most familiar and loved passages in the Old Testament - a simple three line blessing (6:24-26):


     May the Lord bless you and protect you.
     May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.
     May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.

Verse 23 calls this a "special blessing" to the people.  This is still used in some Jewish and Christian liturgy today.  But, you do not have to attend a formal meeting to repeat this blessing or to receive from its benefits!

Notice that each line invokes God's name, Jehovah or Yahweh.  The priest is not giving the blessing, he is imploring God to bless you.  The blessing asks for six things:

1. Bless you - Give you the abundance of God.  This does not mean wealth or material possessions only, but asks the Lord to give you what you need to serve Him.
2. Protect you - Keep you from harm, from sickness, from danger, and from evil influences.
3. Smile on you - Show that He is pleased with your actions.  When a person smiles at you, they are pleased with what they see.  Jehovah is the same.  He wants His children to do His will.
4. Be gracious to you - Give you His grace, His unmerited favor.  We do not want His law or judgment, we want His grace and mercy.
5. Show you His favor - Provide special gifts to you. Allow His Angels to minister to you, inspire your Pastor to preach a sermon that answers the questions you have.  Allow a brother or sister in the Lord to show you favor.
6. Give you his peace - His Peace, His rest, the calmness of God.  The ability to rest in His promises despite the tumultuous conditions of your life.

In verse 27 the Bible says, "Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them."  This is a tremendous promise to believers!

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.