The spirit of Jacob their father revived.’ Genesis 45:27 NKJV
If the dream you believe God gave you seems dead, read this: ‘And they told him, saying, “Joseph is still alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt.” And Jacob’s heart stood still, because he did not believe them. But…when he saw the carts which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived’ (vv. 26-27 NKJV). For years Jacob believed his son, the dreamer, was dead. But it was a lie. In his old age, wagons loaded with riches came to carry him back to see his son who was now the prince of Egypt.
Notice, when Jacob first heard it, ‘he did not believe them’ (v. 26 NKJV). When you have lived in defeat and discouragement for years, it’s hard to anticipate victory. No problem; God is patient. He will keep working with you. He will demonstrate His grace and goodness in such a way that you will start to trust Him again: ‘When he saw the carts which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived’ (v. 27 NKJV).
Don’t believe your dream is dead and will never be fulfilled. And don’t believe those who tell you that you’re too old to fulfil the dream God gave you. God can pack more into the last chapters of your life than all those that preceded them. ‘Your old men [and women] shall dream dreams’ (Joel 2:28 KJV). God is the giver of dreams. And He doesn’t just give them, He resurrects them and empowers you to fulfil them. It’s not too late. You’re not too old. What God did for Jacob – He can do for you. Word for Today. Bob & Debbie Gass
Jacob and Joseph Background
Jacob and Joseph are two important figures in the Bible, both from the Old Testament. Their stories are found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in chapters 25-50. Here are ten pointers about Jacob and Joseph and their significance:
1. Jacob, also known as Israel, was the son of Isaac and Rebekah, and the grandson of Abraham. He had twelve sons who became the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. Joseph was one of Jacob’s sons.
2. Jacob’s story begins with his birthright being sold by his twin brother, Esau, in exchange for a bowl of lentil stew. This act sets the stage for the tension between Jacob and Esau throughout their lives.
3. Jacob’s name means “supplanter” or “heel-grabber,” referring to the incident when he was born holding onto Esau’s heel. Later in his life, Jacob’s name is changed to Israel after wrestling with God.
4. Jacob’s most famous story is his encounter with God at Bethel, where he dreams of a ladder reaching to heaven, with angels ascending and descending. This event solidifies Jacob’s relationship with God and sets him on a path of spiritual transformation.
5. Jacob’s significant role is being the patriarch of the twelve tribes of Israel, making him a crucial figure in the history of the Israelite people. His name “Israel” becomes synonymous with the nation.
6. Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob, is best known for his coat of many colors, a gift from his father that symbolized his favoritism towards Joseph. This act of favoritism causes jealousy among Joseph’s brothers.
7. Joseph’s brothers, driven by envy, sell him into slavery in Egypt. However, Joseph’s extraordinary abilities to interpret dreams lead him to a prominent position in the Egyptian government under Pharaoh.
8. One of the most famous stories involving Joseph is his interpretation of Pharaoh’s dreams, predicting seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Joseph’s wise counsel allows Egypt to prepare for the famine and saves countless lives.
9. Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt leads to a reunion with his brothers, who come seeking food during the famine. Joseph forgives his brothers and reconciles with them, illustrating the themes of forgiveness and redemption.
10. Joseph’s story highlights themes of faithfulness, integrity, and God’s sovereignty. Despite the trials and hardships he faces, Joseph remains faithful to God, ultimately fulfilling God’s plan to preserve the Israelite people in Egypt and pave the way for their future liberation.
The stories of Jacob and Joseph in the Bible are significant because they demonstrate God’s faithfulness to his chosen people and provide valuable lessons about family, forgiveness, and divine providence. Their narratives form an essential part of the foundation of Israel’s history and the development of the Israelite nation.
