Genesis 49:14-15 He saw that rest was good, and that the land was pleasant; He bowed his shoulder to bear a burden, and became aband of slaves (Genesis 49:15).

Friend, as we prepare and plan for the incoming year, please make sure that you do not fall victim to what held the tribe of Issachar bound for many years until the Lord delivered them and they became wise.

From today’s passage, we understand that through prophetic insight Jacob saw the future of his son, Issachar. The tribe of Issachar’s love for pleasure caused them to accept the status quo instead of reaching for the greater heights that God has for them. They saw that rest was good and where they were was pleasant. They failed to go forward. They became enslaved to pleasure and missed their season of growth and elevation to the next level.

However, during the time of Deborah in Judges Chapter 4, they had seen enough and realized that moving forward and possessing their possession was what God meant for them. They rose and went to battle with Barak. On reaching the time of kings in 1 Chronicles 12:32, they had matured and become wise men that understood the time and knew what the nation ought to do.

Their lack of wisdom in the beginning caused them slavery. Through experience and wisdom they became leaders of their people. May the Lord help you as you pray and take decisions based on God’s plan and purpose for your life and not on the immediate pleasure and rest that you would enjoy. Shalom.

Your Turn

• Pray for yourself in the light of this message.

Song:  The steadfast love of the Lord never ceaseth.

Further Reading: Proverbs 8.