Introduction

The book of Numbers, part of the Old Testament and the Hebrew Tanakh, is traditionally attributed to Moses and was likely written around 1300 BC. It is a historical account that meticulously records numbers and also contains inspiring passages such as the mission of the twelve spies, water from the rock, and Aaron's blossoming staff. Today, we will focus on a passage that is often recited in our services but is often overlooked in terms of its significance and message for us today. I am referring to the Aaronic Blessing found in Numbers 6:24-26. Let us explore the meaning of God's blessings.

I. What is a Blessing from God?

A blessing from God is not limited to material prosperity or a life free from difficulties. The Hebrew word for "bless" (beraka) appears about 330 times in the Bible and encompasses the ideas of blessing, worship, and prostration in adoration. It implies that God invests His power to bring success, prosperity, fertility, and long life. The word "bless" is used in both directions: God blesses His people, and His people bless Him. Therefore, it is evident that it has multiple meanings.

A blessing is not merely a pious wish but an active intervention, the goodness of God in action. It conveys the concept that God's presence, activity, and love come into play in a person's life. To bless means to grant not only a gift but also a function, and to do so with a loving interest. At its highest level, it is God Himself turning towards the recipient, thinking favorably of us with an attitude of love, grace, and mercy even before the foundation of the world. The greatest blessing we can receive is to have the presence of God in our lives, which is made possible through Jesus Christ.

II. The Results of God's Blessing

1. "The Lord bless you and keep you" - This phrase signifies God's provision and care for His children. It reminds us that God sustains, provides, and protects us. His presence brings healing, deliverance, and peace. The greatest blessing we can receive is to have God's presence in our lives.

2. "The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you" - This indicates God's favorable disposition towards His people. It represents the manifestation of God's favor and grace, illuminating our lives like the sun shining on the earth. The smile of the Father is the goal of every Christian; pleasing God is our primary purpose.

3. "The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace" - This phrase signifies God's attention and approval of His people. When God turns His face towards us, it means He takes note of us, wants to guide us, and teach us the right path. He sent the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, to instruct us in all things. Peace is the first fruit of God's presence in our lives. It is a sense of well-being, tranquility, and contentment that surpasses all understanding.

Conclusion

The Aaronic Blessing reveals the love of God the Father, the grace of Jesus Christ, and the communion of the Holy Spirit that can reign over us. This relationship with the Triune God should be renewed daily because "each day has enough trouble of its own." Let me conclude with a song based on a 12th-century prayer:

"Day by day, day by day,

O dear Lord, three things I pray:

To see You more clearly,

Love You more dearly,

Follow You more nearly,

Day by day, by day, by day."

May we seek to see God more clearly, love Him more dearly, and follow Him more nearly each day of our lives.

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