Gen. 48-49
As Jacob was giving his blessing to Joseph and his sons, the natural order was disrupted again. Joseph wanted Manasseh to get the blessing since he was the oldest, but Joseph didn't comply since the younger brother would be greater than the older. Instead, Ephraim would be the one whose offspring would become a multitude. However, this was not the only surprise in the family. Reuben's blessing was not that of the firstborn either because of the sin which he could not rectify that is sleeping with his father's concubine. Also, Simeon and Levi did not get a portion because of their violent acts toward the men of Shechem. They were divided and scattered in Israel. Joseph received the longest blessing of all. He had survived by the "hands of the Mighty One of Jacob." Jacob prayed for his family to be blessed abundantly. Although Judah's blessing wasn't as long as Joseph, it was important. From his family, the scepter would not depart.
Even though for years many incidents were brutal and hard to understand, God's purpose was reflected in this blessing. Just as justice was meted out, so blessings were given where they should have been. It is a reminder to me not to judge a situation before its conclusion; and if I never see a conclusion, to trust God that His plan will always come to pass.
Father,
Grow my faith and trust in Your purposes. Help me to rest in You.
In Jesus name,
Amen
And to see that God's plan does not have to match ours - I would not have thought Judah to be worthy of the scepter after his immorality, but God knows what will bring Him most glory and I must submit and worship Him in all of it.
ReplyDeleteI so agree. Judah was so instrumental in Joseph's situation, and Reuben's heart did seem to be changed. But God's plan was different.
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