22/11/2016 - THE STOP IN BEERSHEBA

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So Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.  Genesis 46.1

When Jacob heard that Joseph lived, he was revived. After all, ever since he heard that a wild animal had attacked his son, his spirit was downcast. He could not understand how God would allow Joseph to die, since the Lord’s prophecies about that son had to be fulfilled. Maybe, Jacob always asked himself about what was wrong; however, the Most High’s testimony affirmed that nothing had happened to him.

It is good to trust in God’s declarations about us and those around us, because the divine plan is always fulfilled. If Joseph were dead, how would Jacob find peace or explanations? Would the Word have failed? This teaches us to never be deceived by appearances, because what should prevail are the words of the Lord.

Jacob decided to journey to meet Joseph, but before, he had to go to Beersheba, a place of great meaning to him. While Isaac, his father, was with the king of Gerar, he prospered much, and this made the king ask Isaac to abandon that land, for he had become more powerful than his own people. There was a dispute for the wells between his father’s shepherds and the philistines, which made Isaac move to Beersheba, where God appeared to him and made him promises (Gen 26.23,24).

When Jacob offered sacrifices to the God of his father, he received orders and promises from the Lord, including one not to fear to go to Egypt (Gen 46.3). Then, he left with everything that he had. This teaches us that if we leave in obedience to God, we must take with us our dreams, desires, and everything that we possess. In the mission that the Father gives us, we need gifts, power, and His anointing. Never start your mission to fulfill the Most High’s orders empty-handed.

The gifts that God concedes must be like instruments that should always be polished and anointed, so that whenever necessary, we may have the opportunity of using them for His glory. Whoever lets the oil finish will not enter in Jesus’ feast. Those who prepare themselves to fulfill their mission discover that God has already prepared them before giving them the mission. Therefore, never be committed with any kind of sin, but be firm in what He has ministered to you.

Wherever you found God, you will find Him again. Therefore, do not discard any experience you’ve already had with Him. The place where you found the Word of God is where you must pray and offer sacrifices of righteousness – His praises –, for in that place, He will always be there to bless you. Do not change from house to house, for the Lord is in the revelation that He has given you, with all His power to make you become a blessing.

What Jacob heard in Beersheba was the confirmation of what had already been said to Abraham, Isaac, and himself. As you go through the same experience, you will find strength to carry on with your calling. Now, He who saved you and made you promises is faithful to fulfill them.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares