The Lord said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:

“‘“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.”’

“So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”

Numbers 6:22-27

Scripture Notes

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Often considered the Lord’s Prayer of the Old Testament, the blessing given by the Lord is popular in church benediction and many types of farewells. A priestly blessing is a solemn undertaking and not one to be taken lightly. Aaron, the first priest of the Israelites, was called to guide the people and bless them. This particular blessing is remarkable in that it is rhythmic, structured in three lines that gradually build. Each line includes a request from the Lord and a hopeful result.  

In many instances, these verses are used with the intention of gaining good fortune or more material possessions. We also take for granted the idea of the Lord shining his face on us.  We read about the Lord turning his back and the darkness that ensues, but we really do not understand what it would mean to have the Creator of the universe shine His face on us. But what does this blessing really mean?

The Lord bless you and keep you

The first line bestows a blessing of assurance of God’s divine favor and protection over us. It requests that the Lord bestow upon us things that are beneficial and good for us. In a time of uncertainty, division, and struggle, this priestly blessing should reassure believers of God’s devotion, steadfast care, and protection. He guards us not only physically but also cares for our spiritual and emotional well-being. 

The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121:7-8

the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you

Being blessed by the Lord is no small thing. Seeing God’s face shine up at us signifies His presence and grace, for there is no darkness in Him. The Lord’s presence is a source of comfort and strength.  He offers undeserved favor, something that we could never earn or buy.  We are invited to daily partake in the grace offered through the sacrifice of Christ. 

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace

When the Lord turns his face toward us, it means light, joy, and peace are in his look. Instead of the darkness of God’s turning away, we can experience love and hope. Peace is not the absence of war or division; it is in restoration when things are put in their rightful place and order. We can find comfort in the loving gaze of the Lord when we seek harmony through our actions and in our relationships. 

You will keep in perfect peace
those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in you.
Trust in the Lord forever,
for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.

Isaiah 26:3-4

Many of the verses that have popped up as essential verses to know have concluded with the concept of peace.  The God of peace, peace offered by God, and peace we find when we are close to God and follow his purpose.  In a time of uncertainty and negativity, our attention is being pulled deeper into the trap of doubt and gloom.  Instead, we are offered the welcome blessing of the Lord, who desires to turn his face toward us and give us peace. If only we would not turn our back on him! 

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MEMORY VERse

Image: Jan Luyken. Woman holds her hand over her eyes while looking at the sun, 1687. The Rijksmuseum

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Related Verses

More verses about receiving the Lord’s blessing:

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Prayer Invitation

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Application Questions

What first comes to mind when you think of the Lord’s protection, the grace he offers, and the peace he can supply? 

When have you experienced God’s protection through a time of hardship? How has that experience shaped your faith? When have you experienced the peace of God?

How can you intentionally “bless” others with words of encouragement and reflect God’s love this week? 

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Cover Image: Sanford Robinson Gifford. Tivoli, 1870. The Metropolitan Museum of Art