
Scripture Reading: Genesis 48:20
And he blessed them that day, saying, In thee shall Israel bless, saying, God make thee as Ephraim and as Manasseh: and he set Ephraim before Manasseh.
Reflections: When Joseph brought his sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, to Jacob for a blessing, tradition dictated that Manasseh, the eldest, should receive the greater blessing. However, Jacob, guided by God, crossed his hands, placing his right hand on Ephraim, the younger son. Despite Joseph’s attempt to correct him, Jacob affirmed Ephraim’s greater destiny, saying that God’s plans had a different order. Joseph, recognizing from his own life that God’s ways often defy human expectations, accepted this. Ephraim’s tribe later became the leading tribe of Israel’s northern kingdom, fulfilling Jacob’s prophecy. This story shows that blessings follow God’s will, not tradition or birthright. Trust in His divine wisdom, even when it doesn’t align with your expectations, and surrender to His perfect plan, knowing His ways are always higher and lead to greater blessings and peace.
Prayer: Lord, help me surrender my expectations and embrace the path you have set before me.
Confession: I trust in God’s divine order!