49:3-28 Jacob blessed each of his sons and then made a prediction about each one’s future. The way the men had lived played an important part in Jacob’s blessing and prophecy. Our past also affects our present and future. By sunrise tomorrow, our actions of today will have become part of the past. Yet they will already have begun to shape the future. What actions can you choose or avoid that will positively shape your future?
49:4 The oldest son was supposed to receive a double inheritance, but Reuben lost his special honor. Unstable and untrustworthy, especially in his younger days, he had gone so far as to sleep with one of his father’s concubines. Jacob could not give the birthright blessing to such a dishonorable son.
49:8-12 Judah had sold Joseph into slavery and tried to defraud his daughter-in-law. So why did Jacob grant him this blessing? God had chosen Judah to be the ancestor of Israel’s line of kings (that is the meaning of “the sceptre shall not depart from Judah”). This may have been due to Judah’s dramatic change of character (44:33, 34). Judah’s line would produce the promised Messiah, Jesus.
49:10 What is Shiloh? The meaning of this difficult passage is disputed. Shiloh may be another name for the Messiah because its literal meaning is “sent.” Shiloh might also refer to the Tabernacle set up at the city of Shiloh (Joshua 18:1).
49:18 In the middle of his prophecy to Dan, Jacob exclaimed, “I have waited for thy salvation, O LORD.” He was emphasizing to Dan that he would be a strong leader only if he trusted in God, not in his natural strength or ability. Those who are strong, attractive, or talented often find it easier to trust in themselves than in God who gave them their gifts. Remember to thank God for what you are and have so your trust does not become misplaced.
49:22 Joseph was indeed fruitful, with some heroic descendants. Among them were Joshua, who would lead the Israelites into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:10, 11); Deborah and Gideon, judges of Israel (Judges 4:4; 6:11, 12); and Samuel, a great prophet (1 Samuel 3:19).
49:23, 24 These verses celebrate the times God rescued Joseph when his enemies attacked him. So often we struggle by ourselves, forgetting that God is able to help us fight our battles, whether they are against people with weapons or against spiritual forces. Joseph was able to draw closer to God as adversity mounted. To trust God to rescue you shows great faith. Can you trust him when injury or persecution is directed at you? Such spiritual battles require teamwork between courageous, faithful people and a mighty God.