Higher Everyday

Key Verse

“Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father’s bed; then defiledst thou it: he went up to my couch” (Genesis 49:4).

Text — Genesis 49:1-4

Message

Reuben, the firstborn of the twelve sons of Jacob, was “the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power” to Jacob. However, he received the damning prediction, “thou shalt not excel.” By committing incest with his father’s wife, he became a reproach upon his tribe and family, to whom he ought to have been an example. He forfeited the prerogatives of the birthright, and his dying father demoted him, although he did not disown or disinherit him. He would still have all the privileges of a son, but not of the firstborn.

Jacob’s sad prophecy for Reuben certainly came true. No judge, prophet, ruler, or prince came from that tribe, nor any person of renown except Dathan and Abiram, who rebelled against Moses. Reuben’s tribe chose a settlement on the other side of the Jordan, proving a loss of godly influence on his brothers to which his birthright entitled him. Although Reuben was the firstborn, the kingdom was given to Judah and the priesthood to Levi, leaving Reuben’s tribe to be small and non-influential. Sin has a high price tag.

Quote

Sin has a high price tag

Challenge

Unbridled passion is dangerous.

Prayer for today

Lord, help me to overcome youthful lusts.