If you have been in a Church, or if you sneezed in public – you would have heard this phrase ‘God Bless You.’
However, when the Bible uses this phrase what does it mean?
Like me, many of us Christians are guilty using the words without really knowing the real meaning.
A famous verse often quoted in churches is from the book of Numbers where the priestly tribe of Aaron was called to bless the Israelites saying to them;
Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)
24 “‘The Lord bless you
and keep you;
25 the Lord make his face shine on you
and be gracious to you;
26 the Lord turn his face toward you
and give you peace.”’
A blessing is a way of asking for God’s divine favor to rest upon others.
The above blessing can be divided into five parts conveying a message of hope that God would do the following;
(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 (giving them his approval); and
(5) Giving them Peace
When you ask God to bless others or yourself, you are asking Him to do these five things. The blessing you offer will not only support the one receiving it, but it will also demonstrate love, encouragement, and provide a model of caring for others.
The blessing you offer will not only support the one receiving it, but it will also demonstrate love, encouragement, and provide a model of caring for others.
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