Thanks for joining us on this journey of building a consistent habit of reading our Bibles every day. The Bible reading plan we are using this year can be found here: One Year Bible or here on the Bible app. As always, if you miss a day, don’t feel compelled to go back and catch up. Just skip it and start back on today’s date. I am reading the NLT this year, but feel free to use whatever version you prefer. Now here are some thoughts from today’s readings:

These are the twelve tribes of Israel, and this is what their father said as he told his sons good-bye. He blessed each one with an appropriate message.
– Genesis 49:28

     As we near the end of Genesis, we see Jacob pronounce blessings on his sons. These blessing actually prophesied the destiny of their offspring for generations to come. As we continue to read in the next several books, we will see all that Jacob spoke over his boys come true.

     Your words have the power both to bless and to curse. That’s why we have to watch what we say about people, especially our children. Ask yourself, “Do I want what I just said to come true?” If not, you should rebuke it and repent. Ask God to help you bridle your tongue as we will later read about in the book of James. There truly is the power of life and death in the tongue!

     There’s another level to this truth, however. If you want to speak with the power Jacob has, you will need two things. First, Jacob had a vast history with God. Salvation comes in an instant, but a deep relationship with God takes time to build just like any other relationship. Because Jacob had this history, he had no problem with the second thing, hearing clearly from God. When the words you’re speaking are God’s words, the power is unstoppable.

     If you’re looking for a short cut, there is one… at least there is for step two. The Bible is God’s word and you can speak it over yourself, others, and over situations whenever you’d like. When used properly, it too is powerful. That’s why I highly recommend memorizing scripture. That way, when you need them you have them. The truth is, however, there is no substitute for history with God. But no worries. You can start building yours today!

What words do you need stop saying? What scriptures do you need to learn so you can declare them over yourself or others? What can you start doing today to build your relationship with God so it lasts the long haul?