The Destinies of Israel
Genesis 49:1-2
And Jacob called to his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.…


I. MORAL DISTINCTIONS. What is it which "exalts" a nation (Proverbs 14:34.)? In the development of history, the character of individuals is an important element. God's government of the world is moral government, and sin never, eventually, goes unpunished. Sooner or later, our sin "finds us out."

II. MESSIANIC HOPE. The hope of a coming king is the central point of Judah's blessing. And Judah's blessing is the central blessing of all that Jacob says concerning his sons.

III. MANIFOLD DESTINIES. Apply this to ourselves. How different the conditions, circumstances, capabilities of each one of us! how various the particular destinies in store for us! Yet, God will help, and guide, and bring us on our way, if we trust in Him. We know not exactly where God will lead us, or place us; or what our particular difficulties or temptations may be, but let us trust Him, and seek to do His will always, and everywhere.

(W. S. Smith, B. D.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.

WEB: Jacob called to his sons, and said: "Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which will happen to you in the days to come.




The Blessings of the Tribes
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