Devotion:
Read Genesis 48:10-16.
It is a telling and powerful statement to hear Israel, as he blessed his son Joseph and his grandsons, declare that “God has been my shepherd all my life to this day!” Just so we do not forget, Israel was originally named Jacob, which means “grabber.” Born second to his twin brother Esau, Jacob’s little hand firmly grasped the heel of Esau, as Jacob, even in birth, attempted to gain the birthright as the firstborn son. Jacob did not give up, and a few years later, he convinced the hungry Esau to trade him the birthright for a bowl of stew. And as their father Isaac was nearing death, Jacob and his mother used deception to secure Isaac’s blessing that should have been given to Esau. Jacob had received his new name Israel, meaning “he who struggles with God,” and humbly walked with God from that time. Now, nearing his own death, Jacob (Israel) can look back over his life and see that God had been with him, shepherding him, even when he was not obedient to the shepherd’s will.
May we, after our own struggles and pushing back at times on God’s will, remember that God is our shepherd all of our lives to the last day. God provides, protects, loves, and cares for us. God is faithful!
Personal Worship Option:
Give thanks today for God’s love and faithfulness. It is through God’s grace that God loves us and shepherds us even when we are not obedient. Ask God to help you see God’s presence in your life all along the way.
No comments:
Post a Comment