1. The death of Jacob (49:29-50:14)

Jacob lived a tumultuous life in Canaan, in Paddan Aram, back in Canaan and then in Egypt. He was a pilgrim, but he wanted to be buried in the cave his father Abraham purchased in Canaan. His burial was like one of Egyptian royalty, but he belonged to God. Even in death he planted the hope of God, who would do as he promised and bring Israel to the land that he swore to give them.

2. Joseph's faith (50:15-26)

When Jacob died, his sons worried that Joseph would hold a grudge for how they had treated him. So, they came asking forgiveness. Joseph could forgive them because he accepted God's sovereignty in his life. They had intended to harm him, but God had turned their evil deed around and used it to save many lives. He, too, planted hope by giving instructions about his bones.


Application: Lord, help me to live with hope in your promises.
One Word: Plant God’s hope