Good Morning.
The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to Him shall be the obedience of the people. (Genesis 49:10)
Jacob’s blessing upon Judah established that the tribe of Judah would be the one to rule the nation as king. Having the scepter of kingship, his brothers would bow down to him, according to the words of Jacob. However, the role of being king didn’t take effect immediately, in fact, it would be many years before Saul of Kish was anointed as Israel’s first king. Jacob’s blessing truly came into focus when David ascended the throne to lead God’s people. Ultimately, this prophecy will realized fully when Shiloh comes — that is, the Messiah — who is regarded as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.
Interestingly, this pronouncement of favor and destiny comes after Judah had bowed to Joseph in an act of submission. Had he not humbled himself in such a way, we might presume that history would have turned out much differently for him and his entire family. Thus we are reminded that, every shepherd is also a sheep. By that I mean, if one is to be a leader, he must first be a servant. In God’s economy, those who are called to lead others must first be willing to humble themselves before the Almighty in service to His Will.
Messiah demonstrated this principle when, on the eve of His crucifixion, He humbled Himself by washing the feet of His disciples. He reminded them that a servant was not greater than their Master and that they should do as He did (John 13). So today, let us recall the words of Yeshua regarding this issue: “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave (Matthew 20:26-27). If we want to do great things for the Kingdom, we must be willing to exhibit humility and servitude toward our Father and His people. If we abase ourselves He will exalt us.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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