Bible Chapter: Genesis 48

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    As Jacob was getting older, he reached a point where it was obvious that he would soon die.  Word was sent to Joseph and he came with his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim.  Jacob reviewed for Joseph the history of God’s promises to bless him and his children.  It was an amazing journey filled with both blessings and sorrows.  He rejoiced in the fact that he not only was able to see Joseph again, but Joseph’s children as well.  God had given him more than he could have imagined.  He blessed his grandsons.
    An important principle jumps out in verses 15 & 16.  Jacob talked of how God had shepherded him throughout all his life.  He had the same thoughts as the Psalmist - the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.  God was his guide through a long and challenging pilgrimage.  Yes, they were a rich family.  Yes, Joseph had been promoted in the government and was a man of great power and wealth.  But, the emphasis that Jacob gave was that God was their Shepherd, God was guiding them, God was their source.  He prayed that God would continue to guide the family to future generations.  His desire what that the family that was becoming a great nation would always stay close to God.  The greatest legacy and heritage anyone can have is to know and serve God.  I have seen and experienced that.  I have observed people who have no hope in a personal relationship with Jesus.  When the hard times come, they have nothing to carry them through.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    When Joseph brought his sons to Jacob to receive his blessing, Jacob put his right hand on Ephraim’s head.  This displeased Joseph, for Manasseh was the oldest and the tradition said he would receive the greater blessing.  Jacob did this on purpose.  Their custom was that the oldest would get the first and greatest blessing and inheritance.  Yet, in the Bible we find that this did not always happen.  What this says to me is that human tradition is not always the way God does things.  We sometimes limit ourselves and prevent God from doing all He desires to do.  We need to be open to God and hear from Him.

3.  How can I help someone?
    God will help us and work things out, even when we think that the picture is very grim.  We must learn to trust Him in everything.  We must be in full submission to Him and allow God to do what He knows is best.  These are good words of encouragement.