In my devotions this week, I finished reading the book of Genesis. There are a number of things I could note, but chapter 49 drew my attention. Jacob, knowing he was about to die, gathered his sons and told them about their futures. Some received glowing commendations. Judah was promised that the scepter would not pass from him. Asher was told of the delicacies he would enjoy. Naphtali was told of coming prosperity. Joseph was described as fruitful and told of blessings.
However, others didn’t receive such good news. Reuben was described as unstable, and his sin was noted. Simeon and Levi were noted for their anger and violence. Issachar was told about a future of forced labor. Dan was described as a serpent, and Benjamin as a ravenous wolf. Zebulon received more neutral news—that his people would dwell by the sea and be a harbor for ships.
I wonder what would happen if Jesus appeared on a Sunday morning and gave each of us news about our posterity. How would we handle the news? Would we be given opportunity to make a difference?
Well, we may not know the details of the future, or the choices our children and grandchildren will make, but we are given an opportunity to make a difference. What we do and say now can have a significant impact on the lives of others. The example we provide may be followed, whether for good or bad. So, I ask you, what kind of example do you want others to see? Are you providing that kind of example? If not, what are you going to do about it?
Whether it is our physical or spiritual posterity, people are watching. May our lives always point others to Christ!
In His grip,
Pastor Decker
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