Genesis 46:1 So Israel set out with all that was his, and when he reached Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.
Today, again, I notice that the father is called Israel in places and Jacob in others (sometimes within the same verse). Yesterday, commentary posited that he is called Jacob when his fleshly humanity is coming through, yet when he shows up in faith, he is called Israel in scripture.
Genesis 46:2 And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, “Jacob! Jacob!” “Here I am,” he replied.
What that tells me is that Jacob, Israel, is still struggling with his fleshly humanity. He is both confident that God is with him, leading him, AND afraid of what he may encounter. I’m pretty sure we all know that crazy mix of emotions–confidence and fear, but it brings to mind the saying, “Where God guides, He provides,” a paraphrase of Isaiah 58:11.
Genesis 46:3 “I am God, the God of your father,” he said. “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there.
Precious Savior, Thank You for understanding that we can be confident of Your leading and afraid of what we will encounter, both at the same time. Help us, when we feel this mix of emotions, to know that You are with us, guiding us. Help us to remember that You will never leave us nor forsake us. Help us, Jesus. Amen.
Genesis 46:4 I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph’s own hand will close your eyes.”
Have a blessed day.