Hebrews 13:20-21, “Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
Have you ever had someone pray a blessing over you? The author of Hebrews did that for his readers, and it is called a benediction. This was a common practice in the Old Testament and in the New Testament letters. One example is Romans 15:33, as Paul prayed over the Romans while in prison, “May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.” An OT example is found in Numbers 6:24-26, “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift his countenance upon you and give you peace.” A blessing conveyed God’s protection, favor, mercy, compassion, peace, approval, and that He would be pleased. Therefore, when you offer a blessing to others your action is out of love and encouragement.
Judges 6:24 states, “Gideon built an altar there to the LORD and named it The Lord is Peace (Jehovah Shalom).” Jehovah Shalom is one of the many names for God found in the Old Testament. Bibliatodo.com says, “JEHOVAH SHALOM Meaning The Lord is peace. Enforcement. God overcomes our enemies to give us peace. Jesus is our Prince of peace. God gives peace and inner harmony.” That is a precise definition and a fitting benediction. How would you rate your Peace Index recently? Do you need a blessing of peace prayed over you, or if you don’t, do you know someone you could reach out to, to pray over them? One’s total well-being is connected to their peace quotient.
Worry is a plague that robs us of peace, causes ulcers and upset stomachs, and often the stress from it lands in our neck or lower back. Our muscles tense up and can’t release themselves because they are too tight. Yet Psalm 60:12 declares, “With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes.” Psalm 29:11 states, “The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” I pray the Lord will bless you with peace while reading this devotional.
- With our faith in God’s protection comes peace.
- With trust in the power of God comes peace.
- With rest in being able to sleep at night, knowing God is interceding for you, comes peace.
What has impacted me most in studying Hebrews is that this world is temporary. I have needed to be reminded of that word “temporary” during this past month as it is a fact that Christ could come back at any time. Therefore, I am to strive for peace with everyone (Hebrews 12:14), so God’s light can shine into their heart for God’s grace to be obtained (Hebrews 12:15). When it seems impossible, that is not from the Lord because Philippians 4:13 declares, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Every problem I encounter is temporary in the whole realm of God’s plan. I am thankful for that word “temporary.”
In reviewing your life this past year, have you acquired added credentials gained in endurance that you can share? Have you experienced new fights won in defeating discouragements, praises of God’s presence despite hostile hurdles, and received numerous CPR lifelines from God’s comfort and protection? What about the rewards received from earnestly seeking God (Heb. 11:6)? Looking back over a rerun of this past year, take note that God has been equipping you to do His will, and it is good.
My final benediction prayer of blessing for you is Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT, “Now may the God of peace – who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood – may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.”
Listen to Danny Gokey – Peace (Lyric Video)