Sometimes first impressions are not the best impressions. We might wonder why Jacob is included in the Faith Chapter (Heb. 11). After all, his name means "supplanter." He tricked his brother into selling him his birthright. He tricked his boss, Laban. He deceived his own father. And yet he is called a man of faith. "By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph's sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff" (Heb. 11:21 NIV).

There is something tender about this scene. In spite of all his faults in his early years, Jacob had matured in his spiritual life. The Bible commends him for his spiritual life (Gen. 28:10, 20-21), affection (Gen. 29:18), industry (Gen. 31:40), prayerfulness (Gen. 32:9-12, 24-30), learning discipline from affliction (Gen. 37:28, 24-30), and faith (Heb. 11:21). Now we see him as an old man - but a man of faith. His faith empowered him, even when he was dying, to pronounce a blessing on his grandchildren. His enduring faith gave him strength to worship God as he leaned on the top of his staff. Enduring faith is the picture we see in this passage. Don't give up. Continue to trust in God, even in the waning years.

Prayer: Loving Father, today I pray for the faith of all the saints who are still serving You in spite of advancing years. Strengthen them by Your Spirit to continue to worship You and be a blessing to those around them. Through Christ I pray.

P. S. Today is my wife's birthday. Happy Birthday, Evelyn! Your faith has been so much a part of my life and ministry for all these 42 years we have been together.