Generation NeXt Parenting

Our Position as His Possession

When was the last time you were the deliverer of good news? Perhaps you were given the task of informing an employee of new position and a raise. Or maybe you had the opportunity to share good news concerning a much prayed about request. Do you remember the feeling of warmth that bubbled inside you or the sense privilege to impart such a blessing on someone else?

I love this blessing:
The LORD said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
“ ‘ “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’
“So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.” (Numbers 6:22–27)

Aaron’s sons had seen the worst of times. Their position had been as slaves—mere possessions—forced to give all of themselves to achieve their master’s wishes. To make matters worse, these sons were the offspring of someone whom the Egyptians would label a “troublemaker,” and they had no doubt had observed numerous curses upon the Israelites. Yet after God’s deliverance, Aaron’s sons—in their new position as priest—were given the privilege of imparting a blessing upon God’s people.

We too can be the deliverers of God’s blessing to others. And while the term “blessing” has become a catchphrase by Christians today, its original meaning speaks of a great “benefits.” In these verses, God’s followers were benefited by 1) his keeping, 2) his graciousness, and 3) his peace.

Do you know someone in need of one of these benefits? Perhaps all three? Think about it. Is there a wanderer who needs to be reminded that God will keep and protect her? Or a heavy-hearted friend who needs a reminder of God’s tender grace? Perhaps there’s someone with a troubled spirit who comes to mind, and she needs the benefit of God’s peace.

You, today, can extend such a blessing by reminding your friend of the final two blessings spoken of in these verses: God’s face and God’s name. Both of these benefits again refer to position and possession—Our position in God’s line of sight. And our possession as his delivered ones.

When God’s face shines upon his children, our position equally shines bright as we stand in the light of his presence. And with his name upon us, our possession is clear: Owned by God: redeemed and delivered by him. Isn’t that a blessing worth imparting?

Which of your friends is need of a spoken blessing today?

What words can you share with her that will remind her of her position?

What image can you see in your mind’s eye when you read these words: may “the Lord make his face shine upon you?”

Finally, what benefits do you receive as you impart God’s blessings—his benefits—on others?

posted by Tricia Goyer @ 8:28 AM