Psalms 67:1

Psalms 67:1

This opening verse of Psalm 67 is a plea for divine favor and blessing. “God be merciful unto us, and bless us” is both plea and confession: Israel recognizes its dependence on God’s graciousness. The Selah invites reflective pause—marking a moment to ponder the mercy and blessing requested and received. The imagery of God’s “face” shining on them evokes the priestly blessing (Numbers 6:24-26) and suggests a favorable, intimate endorsement. The individual plea is voiced as a communal aspiration: mercy and blessing for the community’s life, worship, and witness. In the wider context of Psalm 67, blessing serves not merely for personal comfort but to enable the nations to encounter God.

The verse foregrounds God’s grace as the starting point of divine-human relationship. The theophany of God’s face represents favor, presence, and protection. The blessing here is not mere prosperity but a life oriented toward God’s purposes—being a light to others. The Selah invites contemplation about the purpose of blessing: it creates a platform for the nations to know God and respond. Theologically, it frames salvation history as God’s initiative to bless humanity, inviting participation in blessing others.

Practical takeaways:

- Start your day asking for God’s mercy and blessing, not merely for yourself but for your circle to witness God’s goodness.

- Consider how your blessings can serve mission—how your resources or abilities can bless coworkers, neighbors, or the church.

- Cultivate a prayerful posture that seeks God’s presence in every space, not only in church.

- Let blessings become a catalyst for generosity and hospitality.

The verse reframes blessing as purpose-driven: God’s favor enables us to be a blessing to others.

Cross-References: Numbers 6:24-26; Psalm 115:12-13; Deuteronomy 7:9; 1 Chronicles 16:34; Acts 3:26