Genesis 49,50
Here we have the beginnings of the twelve tribes of Israel. You can see that they are all different.
As Jacob blesses his sons, he speaks of their character as it connects to their future. Clearly a spirit of prophecy comes upon Jacob as he speaks. You can see this clearly in what he says over Judah.
He says “your hand shall be upon the neck of your enemies.” And “the scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet.” Finally, “He washed his garments in wine and his clothes in the blood of grapes.”
All of these are images of Jesus, who will come from the tribe of Judah.
If people today would realize the significance of the words they speak over their children, there would be some changes made. The words of parents can define a life for their children. So don’t let their aberrant behavior move you off of what God has already said about them. Stick with what God says.
Speak boldly what God has already said concerning your offspring. Your children are blessed. Say it, say it, and say it again.
Jacob is taken back to Canaan to be buried beside Leah.
Joseph remains in Egypt after his death, but he knows that God’s word is true and the nation will eventually return to their own land. He asks his sons to remember that when that day comes for them to return, his bones should go with them to be buried in his homeland.
God’s plan continues.
Matthew 14:22-36
Have you ever walked on water? Sometimes I feel like I have.
Well, not physical water, as Peter does in this passage. I mean, spiritually speaking. I’ll bet you have too.
God calls you to do something that seems impossible. Maybe it’s a mission, maybe it’s walking in forgiveness toward a mean, ornery person in your life. Someone who is there – maybe a relative or co-worker – someone you can’t get away from, but one who continually brings strife to the scene.
The key, I have found, is to keep your eyes on Jesus. As soon as Peter looks at the waves, he thinks he can’t do it. His faith fails. The same with you. As soon as you look at the circumstances, your faith will fail. Look straight ahead.
Isn’t it interesting that Jesus doesn’t say, “Good job, Peter.” He says, “Oh you of little faith. Why did you doubt?”
The two things Jesus marvelled about during His earthly life were the faith of people who weren’t Jews and the doubt of those who were.
Makes you think, doesn’t it? He is still looking for great faith in the land.
Great faith in a great God. A God who can do anything. With God all things are possible.
Blessings, Suellen Estes
