Genesis 49:28-33 – Death of Jacob
Even though Reuben, Simeon, and Levi have displeased their father, none of Jacob’s sons are rejected, but each are blessed with the appropriate blessing. Whatever rebukes of God’s Word or providence we are under at any time, as long as we have an interest in God’s covenant, a place among His people, and the hope of a share in the heavenly Canaan, we must count ourselves blessed.
Jacob gives his final instructions regarding his burial. His heart is set upon being buried in Canaan, not so much from a natural love of his native soil, as from a principle of faith in the promise of God, that Canaan will be the inheritance of his seed in due time. He wants to keep his sons remembering and desiring the Promised Land. Dying believers should fix their thoughts upon the heavenly Canaan, and the rest they hope for there after death.
Having given these final instructions, Jacob freely resigns his spirit into the hand of God, the Father of spirits. If God’s people are our people, death will gather us to them.
Questions
- What is the blessing Reuben, Simeon, and Levi still have even though their father is displeased with them?
- Why does Jacob want to be buried in Canaan?
- How can we be “gathered to our people”?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks that we are part of God’s people.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.