The Smile
The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you.
Numbers 6:25
A recent study that I read concluded that smiling can be good for your health. Research shows that smiling slows down the heart and reduces stress.
But smiling is not just good for you; a genuine smile blesses those on the receiving end too. Without saying a word, it can tell others that you like them and that you are pleased with them. A smile can hug someone with love without giving them even the slightest touch.
Life does not always give us a reason to smile. But when we see a heartfelt smile, our hearts are encouraged.
Smiles are also a hint of the image of God in us. In the ancient blessing recorded in the book of Numbers we get an indication that God “smiles”: “The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace” (Num. 6:25-26). Those words are a Hebrew idiom for the favour of God on a person’s life, asking God to smile on His children.
So today, remember that you are loved by God, and that He is pleased to be gracious to you and to shine His face upon you.
Bible Reading
Numbers 6:22-27.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may my life be so pleasing to You that You are pleased to have Your face shine on me. And as You graciously smile on my life, may I find someone today with whom I can share Your love through a smile. In Christ's name, I pray. Amen.
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