Word in Five

Genesis 50v15-26

God works our everything for good - O may we believe that and live as though we do just like Joseph. The greatest evil - the crucifixion of Jesus by wicked men - did not stop God's good plan. So we can be confident in our good God. Joseph's words give us a good motto for life - God will surely come to your aid!

Genesis 49v29-50v14

We grieve when someone dies but we don't grieve without hope. Jacob gave clear instructions about where he was to be buried. Interestingly it wasn't with his beloved wife Rachel, but instead with his fathers in the promised land. He knew where his future was - with God in his restored creation. Jacob was honoured as a king by the nation of Egypt. From him would come King Jesus who will one day be honoured by all the peoples of the earth.

Genesis 49v13-28

Joseph is singled out for blessing which isn't a surprise. There's no conflict with Judah being the 'chosen one' because Jesus is so big, he needed lots of lives and stories to picture his massive life and work. He is the suffering servant, rejected by his own people who went down into the pit to lift us up. He is the king of the nations. God is relentless in bringing his blessing to the world. May we trust him today.

Genesis 49v1-12

How kind God is in using Jacob as a great prophet. Thank God that justice will be done. That's why we need a Saviour. How kind he is to Judah, changing his life, making him more like Jesus. And Jesus will come in Judah's family. May we have a big view of Jesus as the King of all nations, just like Jacob did.

Genesis 48v10-22

Jacob could see that the Angel of the LORD (Jesus) had shepherded him throughout his life. What a testimony - and it's true - even when it seems dark we seem lost. He will bring us safely through this life and into his everlasting kingdom. Jacob saw into the future and trusted the LORD who does as he pleases. That's a good thing because he is good. The future is bright in Jesus - the church - his kingdom is bigger than a dysfunctional family. Despite all of its imperfections his church is glorious because it is his!