No Doubt About It

Many are familiar with this prayer of blessing from the Bible:
“May the Lord bless you and keep you,
May the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you,
May the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace (Num. 6:24-26).”

But there’s really no “may” in the verse. I realize when we say that, we simply intend it as part of the blessing. But what happens so often when we read or hear it that way, there’s an unconscious “I hope God will pay attention to me for a few seconds if I’m good enough.” But that’s the opposite of his intentions toward you. It’s really more like this:

“The Lord will bless, protect, and be with you. His face will shine on you like the hope-filled dawn, and he will be your constant source of grace. The Lord will always keep you in his sight, and he will be your peace.”

And that’s my prayer of blessing for you today: that you’d receive all the love, favor, grace, peace, and rest he has for you. Don’t get through this day. Enjoy it. Be aware of God’s presence, and savor your moments with him, and those you love.