Genesis 49:8-12
Reflect
In Genesis 49, we encounter Jacob speaking a blessing over his 12 sons. He not only speaks a blessing of encouragement, but for some it is a warning. For Judah, it is a blessing of power and strength. A message of who he is to become, and the territory he is to lead. Jacob is helping them understand who they are and who they are to become. Have you ever had someone speak a word of truth over you? Maybe it was someone you knew who wanted to encourage you. Perhaps it was a teacher, a mentor, or a coach who saw something in you that you did not even see in yourself. God surrounds us with people who can refine us, who can help us understand ourselves. Sometimes it is a word of encouragement, but sometimes it is a word of warning and correction. Jacob looked at Judah and called out God’s plan for his life, because he was created for a purpose.
Apply
What voices are you listening to in your life? Are they coming from a godly place? Are they helping you become all God wants you to be? Likewise, who are you speaking truth into? In Hebrews it says ‘let us consider how we can spur one another on to love and good deeds.’
Isaac Lee
Pray for Kezia Wright -Guatemala City
I will be doing missions work in 2020 for the Cohort Program of Resonate Global Missions, partnering with Puerta de Esperanza which works with women and children in a market place area of Guatemala City called La Terminal. They are very vulnerable to homelessness and being taken advantage of in a variety of ways. Puerta de Esperanza works hard to give mothers education and skills training to provide for themselves and their families. The organization also helps children with their schoolwork and other needs. I will be serving the women and children who utilize their programs.
