Most sermons speak to me in some way. But every once in a while, there is one that feels like God Himself is speaking straight to my heart. I will never forget hearing a message on Numbers 6:
“May the Lord bless you and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you His favor and give you His peace.” (Numbers 6:24–26, NLT)
It was not just encouraging. It was healing. God commanded the priests to speak this blessing over His people again and again. It was meant to shape how they saw Him and how they lived. He wanted them to know: I am for you. I see you. I long to bless you.
God is not distant or angry by default. Yes, He is just. He is holy. He does not turn a blind eye to sin. But in Jesus, justice and mercy met—and mercy won. His grace was greater than all our sin. The Judge bore the judgment. The Shepherd carried our guilt. The cross did not cancel justice. It fulfilled it through love.
God wants to shine His face on you.
He wants you to know that you are loved, seen, and safe.
He wants to give you peace—not just a calm feeling, but a wholeness that reaches your soul.
This is who He is. A blessing God. A good God. A Father whose heart is kind, strong, and full of grace.
Prayer
God, I confess that sometimes I forget who You are. I carry fears that You are disappointed in me or distant. But You are the God who blesses. You speak peace, not shame. You come near, not with anger, but with mercy. Thank You for turning Your face toward me with love. Let that truth reach the deep places in me today. Let it soften my heart, break my chains, and renew my hope.
Amen.