Lyrics
The Lord bless you and keep you,
The Lord lift His countenance upon you,
And give you peace, and give you peace,
The Lord make His face to shine upon you,
And be gracious unto you, be gracious,
The Lord be gracious, gracious unto you.
Amen
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
The Lord Bless You and Keep You sets the priestly blessing from Numbers to music, allowing each phrase to unfold as a calm petition. Blessing, protection, divine favor, grace, and peace form the entire substance of the lyric. Its repetition does not add a separate story; instead, it gives each part of the benediction space to be heard and received. The closing amen answers the blessing with agreement.
Because the words remain close to Scripture, the song can function naturally in worship, prayer, or a service of sending. The image of the Lord making his face shine expresses favor and gracious attention, while the request for peace reaches beyond the absence of conflict toward well-being under divine care. Numbers 6:24-26 is the direct source and clearest reference. The theme also aligns with the peace described in Philippians 4, where prayer and trust in God are associated with a peace that guards both heart and mind.
Related Scripture
- Numbers 6:24-26 The lyric closely follows the priestly blessing of protection, favor, grace, and peace.
- Philippians 4:6-7 Paul connects prayer to the peace of God guarding hearts and minds.