“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,”
Context:Numbers 6:22 marks the beginning of a section known as the Aaronic Blessing or the Priestly Blessing. This blessing was given by God to Moses for the priests to pronounce over the Israelites. It is a beautiful prayer that carries significant spiritual and theological implications.
Key Points:
- Divine Communication:The verse starts by emphasizing that the Lord spoke to Moses. This highlights the authority and source of the forthcoming blessing. God’s direct communication signifies the importance and sacredness of what is about to be conveyed.
- The Aaronic Blessing:The Aaronic Blessing is found in Numbers 6:24-26 (KJV): “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.” These verses outline a threefold blessing, where God bestows His favour, protection, grace, and peace upon His people.
- Priestly Mediation:The Aaronic Blessing was given to the priests (Aaron and his sons) to declare over the congregation of Israel. It symbolises the role of the priests as intermediaries between God and the people. The priests were conduits of God’s blessing, relaying His divine favour and love to the Israelites.
- Divine Presence:The phrase “make his face shine upon thee” signifies God’s favour and pleasure resting upon the people. It implies the radiance of God’s presence, light, and blessings. When God’s face shines upon someone, it indicates a favourable disposition, acceptance, and approval.
- Graciousness and Peace:The lines “be gracious unto thee” and “give thee peace” reveal God’s desire to extend His grace and peace to His people. God’s grace involves His unmerited favour, love, and forgiveness. Peace represents not just the absence of conflict but also a state of wholeness, well-being, and harmony that comes from being in a right relationship with God.
Application:
- Blessing Others:As believers, we can follow the example of the Aaronic Blessing by speaking blessings over others. We can pray for God’s favour, protection, grace, and peace upon our family, friends, and fellow believers, desiring the best for them and seeking God’s intervention in their lives.
- Mediation and Intercession:Like the priests in the Old Testament, we can serve as mediators and intercessors for others. We can bring their needs, concerns, and joys before God, asking for His blessings and grace to be poured out upon them.
- Embracing God’s Favour:The Aaronic Blessing reminds us of God’s desire to bless His people. We can embrace His favour by seeking His face, walking in obedience, and aligning our lives with His will. When we live in God’s favour, we experience His peace and the radiance of His presence in our lives.
- Sharing God’s Grace and Peace:As recipients of God’s grace and peace, we should extend these qualities to others. We can show grace to those who may not deserve it, forgiving as we have been forgiven. Additionally, we can be agents of peace, seeking reconciliation and fostering unity in our relationships and communities.
Remember, the Aaronic Blessing is not just a historical event; it has relevance for us today. As we study this passage, may it inspire us to seek God’s face, receive His blessings, and share His grace and peace with others.
