In what ways can we express thankfulness for unexpected blessings in our lives? A Remarkable Reunion: Jacob’s Surprise Blessing “Israel said to Joseph, ‘I never expected to see your face again, but now God has let me see your children as well.’” (Genesis 48:11) Jacob’s words capture the wonder of an unforeseen gift. He had resigned himself to loss, yet God multiplied joy by showing him both Joseph and Joseph’s sons. That same God still delights in surprising His people. Recognizing the Giver • Acknowledge God first. Unexpected blessings are never random; they flow from “the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow” (James 1:17). • Speak it out. Jacob didn’t keep silent—he verbalized God’s kindness. Saying “Thank You, Lord” anchors gratitude in reality. • Remember His character. Psalm 115:1 reminds us, “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of Your loving devotion, because of Your faithfulness”. Responding with Immediate Praise • Audibly praise Him—sing, pray aloud, or testify to others like the healed leper who “came back, glorifying God with a loud voice” (Luke 17:15–16). • Celebrate corporately. Share the story within your church or family; collective praise magnifies the blessing. • Kneel or lift hands. Physical posture often helps the heart echo Jacob’s awe. Memorializing the Moment • Write it down. Keep a gratitude journal so future trials can be met with remembered faithfulness (Psalm 77:11). • Create a tangible marker. An object, photo, or verse card can serve as a modern “Ebenezer” (1 Samuel 7:12). • Date it. Genesis 48 records specifics because details matter when recounting God’s work. Blessing Others as Overflow • Pass on the blessing. Jacob immediately stretched his hands to bless Ephraim and Manasseh (Genesis 48:14). When God surprises you, look for someone to encourage, serve, or support. • Give financially or materially out of gratitude (2 Corinthians 9:11). • Speak blessings. Words of affirmation can be a conduit of the same grace you received. Living Daily in Gratitude • Cultivate expectancy. Ephesians 3:20 promises He is “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine”. Expect surprises, stay humble. • Offer continual thanks. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Daily gratitude keeps the heart ready for sudden mercies. • Remember the ultimate unexpected gift—our salvation in Christ. If God gave His Son (Romans 8:32), every lesser surprise points back to that supreme generosity. By recognizing the Source, praising immediately, commemorating His work, overflowing to others, and living in steady gratitude, we mirror Jacob’s heartfelt response and honor the God who still delights to astonish His children. |
    |