When television news anchors prepare for broadcasts, the “shine” is removed from their faces with makeup. That results in a more pleasing appearance for viewers, of course, but it is opposite of what the Bible tells us to expect from God’s face.

Scripture speaks of the light of God’s countenance, or face, as a sign of His blessing. This Hebrew idiom suggests wisdom and blessing replaces the otherwise sternness of a person’s face (Ecclesiastes 8:1). When the light of God’s face shines upon us, it reflects His grace (Numbers 6:25). The psalmist prayed to see the light of God’s gracious face (Psalm 4:6). The light of God’s face also suggests His favor (Psalm 44:3) and His salvation (Psalm 80:3). So how do we enjoy the light of God’s favor and His face? By walking in fellowship with Him: “God is light and in Him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5).

Who wouldn’t want God’s light, His grace, His favor, and His salvation? When we walk in His light with Him, His face shines upon us. 

If the sun of God’s countenance shine upon me, I may well be content to be wet with some rain of affliction. 

Joseph Hall