Intro: When I was a small child, the expression on my father’s face told me whether he was please or displeased with my actions. Dad was very transparent that way and all it took was one look…”the look”…and I knew how he felt. Honestly, if Dad looked at me in a certain way, it was always enough to stop whatever I was doing before discipline commenced.
In our passage today, the psalmist wants God to face him. It is not unusual for a psalmist to speak of God’s face as a way of inviting His presence. To seek God’s shining face is to experience His blessing, provision, and protection. It is welcoming God into every aspect of life and asking to be led by love and guided in God’s will where salvation is promised. The shining face of God brings acceptance and an invitation to experience His glory. However, when God hides His face, it leads to chaos and shame.
Psalm 80:7 NLT
Turn us again to yourself, O God of Heaven’s Armies.
Make your face shine down upon us.
Only then will we be saved.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the favor and grace we find as you make your face shine down upon us. We desire your presence, provision, and protection for our lives. We long for a stronger relationship with you so we can display your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.