Saving Face!

When we think of "saving face" we probably think of trying to work ourselves out of an awkward situation. To "save face" means to protect ones reputation. To "lose face" would be to have ones character or integrity brought into question. But what about "a saving face"? What about a face that we know would extend blessing rather than judgment? The expression on a face can sometimes quickly convey what it would take many words to describe.

Solomon stated. . .
"IN THE LIGHT OF A KING'S FACE THERE IS LIFE, and his favor is like the clouds that bring the spring rain." ( Proverbs 16:15 ESV)

For one to have come into the presence of a king -- the symbol of authority and power over a nation -- to see an angry and stern face might have meant the end. "Off with their head!" "Hang them on the gallows!" "Take them to the dungeon!" Not the life blessing the "spring rain" would have been to the field where seed had just been sown. Certainly not words of nurturing. However, to see the face of the king lit up would seem an indication good news was coming. Perhaps honors would be given or acknowledgement that the king was delighted in something that had been done by the one standing there in his presence.

In Numbers we have what has been referred to as the priestly blessing (how Aaron and his sons were to bless the people of Israel), where we read. . .

"(24) The LORD bless you and keep you; (25) The LORD MAKE HIS FACE TO SHINE UPON YOU and be gracious to you; (26) the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." ( Numbers 6:24-26 ESV)

In this way God's Name was to be upon the people and He would bless them. ( Numbers 6:27) The desire for this blessing from God is reflected through the Psalms as well. ( Psalm 4:6; 31:16; 67:1; 80:3, 7, & 19; 119:135) It was associated with the salvation of the Lord. ( Psalm 80:3, 7, & 19)

Certainly it is not the darkness of anger and condemnation, but rather the LIGHT OF THE LORD'S FACE we desire to shine upon us. That is God's "saving face"; the face of HIS MERCIFUL FAVOR toward us. Living with the light of the Lord's face toward us we can live with a lit up face ourselves; experiencing the lasting joy of a right relationship with Him. May we continue to acknowledge HIS SOVEREIGNTY over our life as we live and serve in His presence to His glory and praise.

Have a great day LIVING UNDER THE LOVING COUNTENANCE OF GOD!
Carl

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