This verse from Tobit 12:17 is part of the angel Raphael's farewell to Tobit and Tobias after having revealed his true identity. Let's break down the meaning:
"And he said to them, 'Don't be afraid.'" This addresses the natural fear or awe that Tobit and Tobias would be experiencing upon learning they've been in the presence of an angel of God. Angels, being powerful spiritual beings, can inspire fear in humans. Raphael is reassuring them not to be frightened by this revelation.
"You will all have peace." This is a promise and a blessing. "Peace" in this context goes beyond merely the absence of conflict. It implies well-being, wholeness, harmony, and a secure relationship with God. Raphael is assuring them that the blessings they have received (Tobit's restored sight, Tobias's successful journey and marriage, the defeat of the demon Asmodeus) will lead to lasting peace in their lives. The fruits of doing God's will are peace and contentment.
"But bless God forever." This is the key instruction. Raphael is emphasizing that the proper response to God's grace and mercy is to offer continuous praise and thanksgiving. Recognizing God as the source of all good things should lead to a life of gratitude and worship. It is a reminder that any good fortune they have experienced is ultimately from God and that they should acknowledge His sovereignty and goodness. The imperative to "bless God forever" implies a lifelong commitment to worship and gratitude, recognizing that everything they have received is a gift from God.
In summary, the verse is a comforting farewell, a promise of continued well-being, and a call to lifelong worship and thankfulness to God. It underlines the message of the Book of Tobit: that faithfulness and obedience to God, even in difficult circumstances, will be rewarded, and that gratitude for God's blessings is essential.
This verse from Tobit 12:17 is part of the angel Raphael's farewell to Tobit and Tobias after having revealed his true identity. Let's break down the meaning:
"And he said to them, 'Don't be afraid.'" This addresses the natural fear or awe that Tobit and Tobias would be experiencing upon learning they've been in the presence of an angel of God. Angels, being powerful spiritual beings, can inspire fear in humans. Raphael is reassuring them not to be frightened by this revelation.
"You will all have peace." This is a promise and a blessing. "Peace" in this context goes beyond merely the absence of conflict. It implies well-being, wholeness, harmony, and a secure relationship with God. Raphael is assuring them that the blessings they have received (Tobit's restored sight, Tobias's successful journey and marriage, the defeat of the demon Asmodeus) will lead to lasting peace in their lives. The fruits of doing God's will are peace and contentment.
"But bless God forever." This is the key instruction. Raphael is emphasizing that the proper response to God's grace and mercy is to offer continuous praise and thanksgiving. Recognizing God as the source of all good things should lead to a life of gratitude and worship. It is a reminder that any good fortune they have experienced is ultimately from God and that they should acknowledge His sovereignty and goodness. The imperative to "bless God forever" implies a lifelong commitment to worship and gratitude, recognizing that everything they have received is a gift from God.
In summary, the verse is a comforting farewell, a promise of continued well-being, and a call to lifelong worship and thankfulness to God. It underlines the message of the Book of Tobit: that faithfulness and obedience to God, even in difficult circumstances, will be rewarded, and that gratitude for God's blessings is essential.
