In what ways can we bless others, following Jacob's example in Genesis 48:10? Jacob’s Loving Act in Genesis 48:10 “Now Israel’s eyes were dim because of old age, so that he could not see. And Joseph brought his sons near to him, and his father kissed them and embraced them.” Jacob, even as his physical sight faded, literally reached out to the next generation. His embrace and kiss were tangible demonstrations of covenant love, grounded in the sure promises God had made to his family. Principles Drawn from Jacob’s Blessing • Presence matters: Jacob insisted on having the boys close, proving that proximity communicates value. • Affection is powerful: A simple embrace and kiss conveyed acceptance and belonging. • Faith is transferred: The blessing linked the boys to the God who had faithfully shepherded Jacob. • Legacy is intentional: Jacob acted deliberately, not leaving spiritual inheritance to chance. Practical Ways to Bless Others Today • Show up consistently—visit, call, or text to remind others they are seen and cherished. • Offer verbal encouragement—speak specific, Scripture-based affirmations that build faith (Ephesians 4:29). • Give holy touch—appropriate hugs or a hand on the shoulder can reassure and strengthen. • Share testimony—tell how the Lord has worked in your life, passing on living faith (Psalm 145:4). • Pray aloud with them—invoke God’s favor and protection, echoing Numbers 6:24-26. • Provide resources—time, skills, or finances that equip them to walk in their God-given calling (Proverbs 13:22). • Declare identity—remind them they are children of promise, just as Jacob named Ephraim and Manasseh heirs of the covenant (Galatians 3:29). Supporting Scripture • Numbers 6:24-26: “The LORD bless you and keep you…”—model for spoken blessing. • Proverbs 18:21: “Life and death are in the power of the tongue”—our words shape destinies. • Deuteronomy 7:9: God keeps covenant to a thousand generations—confidence when blessing descendants. • Luke 18:15-17: Jesus welcomed little children—affirming the value of blessing the young. • 2 Timothy 1:5: Lois and Eunice passed sincere faith to Timothy—family heritage of belief. Living the Blessing Follow Jacob’s pattern by choosing to be physically present, verbally affirming, and spiritually intentional. Each embrace, encouraging word, and faith-filled prayer becomes a conduit through which God’s steadfast promises flow to the people He places in your life. |
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