How can we trust God's plans when they differ from our expectations? Setting the Scene “And Joseph took both of them—with Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel’s left hand.” • Joseph lines up his sons so the firstborn, Manasseh, will receive the dominant right-hand blessing. • Everything seems orderly, sensible, and exactly what a father would expect. • Yet in the very next verse Jacob will cross his arms, stunning Joseph and upending the plan Joseph thought was perfect. Our Expectations Meet God’s Arrangements • We often arrange life the way Joseph arranged his sons—logical, responsible, prepared. • God may still “cross His arms,” redirecting our careful plans to fulfill a purpose we cannot yet see. • The moment feels confusing, but it is not random; it is purposeful, loving, and wise. What Jacob’s Crossed Hands Teach Us • God’s sovereignty overrides human custom (Genesis 48:14–20). • He values purpose over precedent; Ephraim was chosen for a larger role in Israel’s history. • Blessing is not lost when plans change—both sons are blessed, just not in the order Joseph expected. • Joseph learns that submission to God’s wisdom is safer than insisting on his own. Walking in Trust When Plans Shift • Remember His character: perfect love and absolute wisdom never collide. • Recall past faithfulness: Joseph could look back on pits, prisons, and promotions and see God’s hand. • Release tight control: hold plans loosely so they can be adjusted without resentment. • Respond with obedience: Joseph did not pull the boys away; he allowed the blessing to stand. • Rest in assurance: God’s rearrangements aim for greater fruitfulness than our forecasts. Anchors From the Rest of Scripture • “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD.” (Isaiah 55:8) • “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” (Romans 8:28) • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5) • “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:6) • “For I know the plans I have for you—plans for welfare and not for disaster.” (Jeremiah 29:11) • “To Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” (Ephesians 3:20) Living the Lesson Today • Keep scheduling, planning, and stewarding—Joseph’s preparation was commendable. • Stay ready to pivot the moment God signals a different arrangement. • Measure success by faithfulness, not by whether events match your blueprint. • Celebrate that when God “crosses His arms,” He is positioning blessings beyond anything you could arrange. |
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