Today is Monday, July 11th, 2011; Karen's Korner #2106

A couple of verses taken from Numbers 6:22-26, asking for God's blessing on the people of Israel, but meant for us today as well. Taken from Life Application Bible translation:
 
"Now the Lord said to Moses,
"Tell Aaron and his sons that they are to give this special blessing
to the people of Israel:
 
'May the Lord bless and protect you;
may the Lord's face radiate with joy
because of you;
may he be gracious to you,
show you his favor,
and give you peace.'
 
Bible Commentary:  A blessing was one way of asking for God's divine favor to rest upon others. The ancient blessing in these verses helps us understand what a blessing was supposed to do.
 
Its five parts conveyed hope that God would:
 
1) bless and protect;
2) radiate with joy (be pleased) because of us;
3) be gracious (merciful and compassionate) to us;
4) show favor to us;
5) give us 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 help the one receiving it; it will also demonstrate love, encourage others and provide a model of caring to those who watch.
 
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Dear Father in Heaven, I ask your special blessing on each reader of Karen's Korner this morning. I ask for your protection and that your face might shine on each of us and give us the joy and peace that only you can give. May we experience your love and favor in everything we think, say, and do today.  In Jesus' Name we ask this. Amen.

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