Jacob’s sons didn’t always have a good relationship with one another. They sold Joseph into slavery. Jacob was sad because of his son’s disappearance. Two of Jacob’s sons, Simeon and Levi, brought disgrace on the family and reproach on Jehovah’s name. Also, Jacob’s beloved wife, Rachel, died while giving birth to their second child. And because of a severe famine, Jacob was forced to move to Egypt in his old age.
8. What did King David hope to do?
David earnestly desired to build a temple for his God. He expressed that desire to the prophet Nathan. The prophet encouraged him to do for Jehovah was with him.
10. How did Jehovah bless David?
Even though David couldn’t build a house for Jehovah, Jehovah promised him that one of his descendants would rule forever. Jehovah told him in 2 Sam. 7:16 that his house and kingdom will be secure forever before him.
13. What blessings did the Christians experience during the famine?
During the famine, true Christians helped one another. Those who received relief supplies saw Jehovah’s support firsthand through the donations their brothers and sisters did. Also, those who made donations or who otherwise shared in the relief work experienced the happiness that comes from giving. Jehovah made sure that even during those hard times, his people received blessings.
How did Jehovah support his faithful servants in Bible times?
Though they were not shielded from life’s troubles and difficulties, Jehovah saw to it that his servants had reasons to rejoice. In the case of Jacob, he had a happy reunion with his son Joseph many years later. Jehovah also blessed him materially. David, received disappointing news but Jehovah gave him a hope for the future, telling him his kingdom will last forever.
