Looking Ahead

DAY 17
10-6-09
GENESIS 49-50 & EXODUS 1


Good Morning!

An important feature of biblical history is the way the ancients looked forward. They acknowledged that God was working; that God had a plan; and they were a part of it. When Jacob blessed his sons on his death bed, he acknowledged God’s past dealings with his family. And he looked ahead – in a prophetic way – to what God would do in the future.

Notice in Jacob’s blessing for Judah in Genesis 49:10, Jacob looks forward to see that God will bless the family of Judah with power and rule. Now Jacob obviously didn’t understand the messianic implications, but he acknowledged God’s plan working through his son.

Dwelling on the past or being stuck in the present is a mindset that holds us back. The ability to plan, dream, and look forward is healthy way to live in the kingdom of God. This is true for our families. We need to raise children to look to the great possibilities of a great future. It is true in the church. Churches can and do get stuck by lack of forward thinking and vision.

What was the future for Israel’s family? Slavery, then freedom. No matter what, God’s plan for them was going to be fulfilled. “To Canaan’s Land, I’m On My Way.”

Look ahead. Acknowledge God’s past and current blessings; and then look, plan, and move ahead.

Barry

"Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded…there is hope for your future." declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 31:16-17)