What can we learn about God's plans from Jacob's actions in Genesis 48:17? The Setting Jacob is near death. Joseph brings his sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, for a patriarchal blessing (Genesis 48:13-16). Contrary to common practice, Jacob crosses his arms so that his right hand—the hand of greater honor—rests on the younger Ephraim. Jacob’s Surprising Gesture “ When Joseph saw that his father had placed his right hand on Ephraim’s head, it displeased him; so he took his father’s hand to move it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s.” (Genesis 48:17) What This Teaches About God’s Plans • God’s choices are sovereign, not bound by human custom – He had already favored Abel over Cain (Genesis 4), Isaac over Ishmael (Genesis 17:19-21), Jacob over Esau (Genesis 25:23; Romans 9:10-13). – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts...” (Isaiah 55:8-9). • God sees the future and acts accordingly – Ephraim later becomes the dominant northern tribe (Numbers 1:32-33; Deuteronomy 33:17). – “Declaring the end from the beginning...” (Isaiah 46:10). • His grace overrides human expectations – Birth order, merit, or tradition cannot obligate Him (1 Samuel 16:7). • God works through willing, Spirit-led obedience – Jacob’s action is deliberate and prophetic, not accidental (Genesis 48:14). • Moments of discomfort often signal divine redirection – Joseph’s displeasure shows how our immediate feelings can conflict with God’s better plan (Proverbs 19:21). Living It Out Today • Trust God when events upset normal order; He may be positioning someone—or you—for greater purpose. • Submit plans to Him, recognizing He reserves the right to overturn any expectation. • Discern His leading carefully; what seems unconventional can be precisely His will. • Celebrate His grace at work in others, even when their promotion surprises you. |
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