The Blessing

 Numbers 6:24-26
"The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."

 "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.  It's five parts conveyed hope that God would 1)bless and keep them (favor and protect); 2) make his face shine on them (be pleased); 3) be gracious (merciful and compassionate); 4) turn his face toward them (give his approval); 5) give peace.  When you ask God to bless others or yourself, you are asking him to do these 5 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 others."
~ Life Application Study Bible