1. These verses tell us about an exchange between Jacob and his sons. 2. In our lesson we are especially concerned with something that happened to Jacob in vs.27 -- "his spirit revived." 3. We have something in common with Jacob -- occasionally we go through times when our spirits need to be revived. 4. Our study is designed to help us when we face such times. Discussion: I. LET US DETERMINE WHY JACOB'S SPIRIT NEEDED TO BE REVIVED
A. Some important background information is revealed in Genesis 37. 1. We learn from vs.3 how Jacob felt about Joseph. 2. We learn from vs.4 how Joseph's brothers felt toward him. 3. According to vs.31-33, Jacob was convinced that an animal had killed Joseph. 4. Jacob would not be comforted (vs.34-35). B. Keep in mind that God had made some special promises to Jacob that He had earlier made to Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 28:12-15). C. This did not prevent Jacob from facing hardship during his life (Genesis 47:7-9). D. Thankfully, Jacob's spirit revived when he learned that Joseph was alive. E. This illustrates the value of good news (Proverbs 25:25). F. The reunion between Jacob and Joseph was special (Genesis 46:29-30). II. THE BIBLE PROVIDES OTHER EXAMPLES OF REVIVAL
A. Samson revived after drinking water that God provided (Judges 15:18-19). B. After Elijah prayed for a child that had died, he revived (1 Kings 17:21-22). C. Following His death on the cross, Jesus rose and revived (Romans 14:9). D. All of these examples illustrate the meaning of "revival" -- to quicken, to renew, and to restore strength. III. THE BIBLE IDENTIFIES GOD AS THE SOURCE OF REVIVAL
A. (Ezra 9:8-9) As he prayed Ezra acknowledged how God had revived His people. B. (Psalm 138:7) David was confident that God would revive him, even during times of trouble. C. (Isaiah 57:15) God will revive those who are humble and contrite. D. Revival from God leads to joy (Psalm 85:6). E. Renewal from God is available on a daily basis (2 Corinthians 4:16). Conclusion:
1. To illustrate the value of a revived spirit, would you have preferred to be around Jacob before or after his spirit revived? 2. If a man like Jacob could be in need of revival, it can happen to anyone. 3. Thankfully, revival from God is available. 4. Let us maintain humble and contrite spirits and remain confident that God will revive our spirits.
