Psalm 80:3 (see also vs. 7 and 19) "Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved."

The Psalmist is speaking of a time when the favor of God had been lost. It is a miserable time and condition when God's people, who have once known the presence of God, the smile of God, and the favor of God, wake up realizing His frown is upon them rather than His smile. The most important thing upon the minds of the people was that God would "shine forth" (vs. 1) or manifest Himself favorably upon them once again. Barnes' Notes on the Bible states the Psalmist is asking God to "be favorable or propitious to us. Let the frown on thy countenance disappear."

Verses 7 and 19 of this same chapter reiterates the request with greater intensity and desire. In verse three the words "O God" are used, in verse seven the words "O God of hosts” are used, and in verse 19 the words "O LORD God of hosts" are used. One commentator writes, "This indicates greater earnestness; a deeper sense of the need of the interposition of God, indicated by the reference to his attribute as the leader of hosts or armies, and therefore able to save them."

Are you experiencing the smile of God today upon your life? Is Jesus shining brightly? We know that God is able not only to save us from dangers and troubles, but He can also save us from our sins. It is only by His smile and favor that we can be saved in any sense, from our sins or from danger.

Notice the importance placed upon God shining forth in our lives in the following Scriptures:

• Numbers 6:24-26, "The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."

• Psalm 31:16, "Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies' sake."

• Psalm 67:1, "God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah."

• Psalm 119:135, "Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes."

May we earnestly desire the favor of Christ in our lives! Shine Jesus shine!

Have a great day walking in the light of His glorious countenance.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1. Do you think God is smiling or frowning concerning the condition of our country? Explain.

2. Do you need to live your life with a greater sense of urgency in seeking the Lord?

3. What can you do today to ensure the smile of God upon your life?