Our next Old Testament book is that of Numbers! A volume that someone has subtitle, “Get Somewhere” The name “Numbers” is a translation of Arithmoi, from the Septuagint, titled thus because the book contains many statistics, population counts, tribal and priestly figures, and other numerical data. The Hebrew name comes from the first sentence of the book and means “in the desert of ”; it is perhaps an even more accurate description of the book’s content, which follows the Israelites through almost forty years of wandering in the desert.
Perhaps one of the most recognisable text of the Old Testament is found in this book, “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.” (Number 6:24-26) When John Rutter composed his now famous choral rendition of these lovely words in 1981, it was for the memorial service held at his old school for much loved music teacher. Yet in the original text it is a blessing for the travelling children of Israel.
This Numbers' text is a powerful promise declared in a priestly blessing. The Lord himself, who brought the Israelites out of Egypt, was uniquely present with the nation Israel (Exodus 20:2; Deuteronomy 5:6). Not only was He present with them in a special relationship, but He also promised to protect and guard Israel.
There is a fivefold aspect to this Godly blessing
1.God is the source of all blessing.
2.God blesses us personally.
3.God bends down to benefit us.
4.God blesses as a father to his child.
5.God’s blessing brings peace.
Blessing God, thank You for reminding me that despite the clouds that come into my life, You are still the same. While my circumstances seem to hide You from me, You have not moved away from me. You never change. Help me to remember that You care for me and desire to give me comfort. Amen.
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