Daily EncouragementSample

This is a lovely prayer for the blessings of God. It is a plea reminiscent of the priestly blessing of Numbers 6:22-27. The blessing of God is all of grace, and that grace is epitomized in this picture of his face shining upon us. Its radiant glory - “His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance” (Rev. 1:16) - speaks of mercy and acceptance, of compassion and infinite love. He who has the smile of God lacks no blessing.

The purpose of the prayer is worth noting: “that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations.” Acceptable prayer for God’s blessing is never selfish. It has the world on its heart and answers to the divine purpose of salvation. True missionary concern is characteristic of the blessing of God, and the link between them is inevitable. The Church on which God’s blessing shines will declare his praises to the world (1 Pet. 2:9).

The primary need of the world is therefore that the church should be blessed. A revived church reaches the world. Our burden for the world must send us back to pray for the church, and the evidence of an answer will be seen in an increased measure of concern in the church for “Salvation among all nations.”