Scripture to Read: Genesis 49:13-15
As we continue in Genesis 49, we read how Jacob (Israel) handed down a blessing or pronouncement on two more of his sons. In Jacob's words to Zebulun, Jacob says, in Genesis 49:13, "Zebulun shall dwell at the shore of the sea; he shall become a haven for ships, and his border shall be at Sidon." While this blessing is not easy to interpret, his descendants, the Zebulunites, were involved in the business of importing and exporting, living in Sidon by the sea. The reason this is worth pointing out is as God revealed these things to Jacob and Jacob passed them along to his sons, we can see the plan of God continue to unfold. God's plan continues to be revealed through Issachar too. Jacob (Israel) speaks to Issachar of his strength, that he "is a strong donkey, crouching between the sheepfolds" but that while he rests, he also "became a servant at forced labor," as recorded in Genesis 49:14-15. God's plan for Issachar included strength that found its end in service. This pattern of God's plan is found in the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. We, as followers of Christ, serve the most powerful God. God is the one who chose to come to earth in the form of a servant (see Philippians 2:5-11) to die for us. Where Issachar was pushed into forced labor, our Savior willingly served and gave His life for all. May God's blessings remind us that He has faithfully brought His promises to fulfillment through our suffering servant, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Challenge & Application
1. How does seeing the fulfillment of Zebulun’s blessing encourage you to trust in God’s Word?
2. How does the truth that our most powerful God came to earth as a servant impact the way you live your life?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!