How does understanding God's blessing influence our prayers and actions this week? Psalm 67:1—A Blessed Foundation “May God be gracious to us and bless us and cause His face to shine upon us. Selah” (Psalm 67:1) Blessing Shapes the Way We Pray • We approach God with confidence, not reluctance, because He himself invites us to seek favor (“May God be gracious to us”). • Our petitions become outward‐looking: His face shining on us is so His light can reflect through us (v. 2). • We pray in agreement with His revealed will, knowing He delights to give good gifts (James 1:17). • Thanksgiving saturates our intercession; blessing already received fuels faith for what is ahead (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Blessing Directs How We Act • Gratitude replaces grumbling. Remembering His gracious smile curbs complaints (Psalm 103:2). • Generosity flows. We give because we are certain we will not lack (2 Corinthians 9:8). • Holiness becomes natural. Living under His shining face motivates righteous choices (Psalm 119:133). • Witness is emboldened. Others see His favor on us and are drawn to the Savior (Matthew 5:16). Scripture Echoes of the Blessing • Numbers 6:24-26—“The LORD bless you and keep you…”: the priestly benediction Psalm 67 adapts. • Genesis 12:2-3—Blessed to be a blessing: Abraham’s promise extends to every believer (Galatians 3:14). • Ephesians 1:3—We already possess “every spiritual blessing in Christ,” anchoring earthly requests. • Psalm 31:16—“Make Your face shine on Your servant”: shining face equals deliverance and favor. Practical Steps for This Week • Start each morning by rereading Psalm 67:1; personalize it—“Bless me today so Your ways are known.” • Keep a blessing log: jot down every evidence of His grace; review it nightly. • Turn one ordinary conversation toward God’s goodness; let His light reach someone else. • Allocate part of your budget or time to bless another believer, mirroring His generosity. • Before decisions, ask, “Will this choice reflect His shining face or dim it?” Then act accordingly. |
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