“And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, ‘Jacob! Jacob!’ ‘Here I am,’ he replied. ‘I am God, the God of your father,’ he said. ‘Do not be afraid.’”
Genesis 46:2-3
A severe famine had arisen in Egypt and the surrounding land, and Jacob’s family did not escape its effects. Then Jacob (whom God had renamed Israel) received astounding news from his sons that their brother Joseph was still alive and was a ruler in Egypt. Jacob had grieved for many years, believing that his favored son had died from a wild animal attack. But now he would go to this foreign land to see him, making the long journey even in his old age.
Jacob had at other times in his life distrusted God, lied and was deceitful before God, and even wrestled with God. But now his faith was solid in the One who had seen him through those times and looked on him with love anyway. To hear His voice in the night calling him by name must have been reassuring. God reminded him again of His promises.
Seasons of life bring challenges. But we have the constant guidance of our heavenly Father who always keeps His promises to love and care for us. He may even interrupt our thoughts in the middle of the night to assure us.
Jacob had at other times in his life distrusted God, lied and was deceitful before God, and even wrestled with God. But now his faith was solid in the One who had seen him through those times and looked on him with love anyway. To hear His voice in the night calling him by name must have been reassuring. God reminded him again of His promises.
Seasons of life bring challenges. But we have the constant guidance of our heavenly Father who always keeps His promises to love and care for us. He may even interrupt our thoughts in the middle of the night to assure us.
Scripture Focus
Genesis 46:1-7
Insight
“He leadeth me: O blessed thought!/ O words with heavenly comfort fraught!” (Joseph H. Gilmore, 1862)
Bible In A Year
- Job 13-14
- Psalm 49
- Luke 12
