Series: Genesis June 12, 2005

Message: “Finishing Well” Genesis 49:13-50:26

Big Idea: Ending well is a goal every believer should strive for. It is possible as we walk in the power of God’s Spirit, and obey God’s Word.

I. THE SHAPING OF DESTINY

A. A father’s words

1. They are PROPHETIC in nature.

2. They are DIFFICULT to interpret.

3. They are a reminder of God’s SOVEREIGNTY.

B. A father’s blessing

1. Reuben Lost the birthright

2, Levi Scattered in blessing

3. Simeon Scattered in judgment

4. Judah Line of kings (King of Kings)

5. Zebulun Dwell by the sea

6. Issachar Preferred ease & luxury to hard work

7. Dan Good beginning, but not so good ending

8. Gad Overcomers

9. Asher Delicacies to royalty

10. Naphtali Swift messenger

11. Joseph Prosper abundantly

12. Benjamin Share in his abundance

II. THE FAITH OF JOSEPH

A. Joseph faces his father’s DEATH 49:29-50:13

1. A final charge: Not HERE but THERE vs. 29-32

2. An appropriate response: SORROW with HOPE 49:33-50:14

a. GRIEF

b. BURIAL

c. HONOR

3. Life lesson: Facing the future is not always EASY, but

life must go on.

B. Joseph faces his brother’s DOUBTS vs. 15-21

1. Their STORY

2. His SORROW

3. God’s PLAN

4. Life lesson: Be assured our heavenly Father has GOOD things ahead for you.

C. Joseph faces his own DEATH vs. 22-26

1. God’s BLESSING

2. God’s PROMISE

3. Like FATHER, like SON

III. FINAL THOUGHT

What matters most at death is our RELATIONSHIP to God.

**Please be prayerful and quiet as we come to the end of our study.

Ask the Holy Spirit to bring life change in response to the Word. **