The benediction is for you, don't leave without it

We hear benedictions at the end of religious gatherings, and we wait for them because they are personal. 

There are a few benedictions that are general, but we are encouraged most by the ones that are personal. They pronounce blessings for us personally, and not just for the crowd.

In the Old Testament of the Bible, believers would often travel many miles to bring sacrifices and to worship. No matter how long they had to wait or regardless of the weather conditions, not a soul would leave until the priest raised his hands and gave the benediction or the blessing.

Even today we still wait for the benediction. Generally, the pastor raises his hands and issues the blessing on all who shared in the worship and gave offerings of time, talent, and resources. Those that leave before the benediction miss their special blessing. 

We need every blessing we can get, especially ones that are personal.

Look Numbers 6:24-26. Count how many times this benediction says "You."

It reads  “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you; be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

There are six "Yous" in that blessing. It's no doubt, it's meant to be personal

It has your name on it.

It's good to know that God blesses every one of faith, but it's even better to hear his word say ,"You" six times.

That's personal.