Slideshow image

Today we read the final chapters of Genesis—48 through 50. In chapter 48 the Abrahamic Covenant is again confirmed through Jacob’s lineage, but with an unexpected twist—not one, but two of Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, are given the birthright blessing. When blessing them, Jacob crossed his arms, placing his right hand on the younger Ephraim and his left on Manasseh, despite Joseph presenting Manasseh closer to Jacob’s right hand.

This moment aligns with a recurring biblical theme: God chooses whom He will, often contrary to our expectations (e.g., Cain and Abel, Jacob and Esau). It is a reminder that God’s ways are higher than ours and that He does not always follow what we think is best when unfolding His plan.

In Genesis 49, Jacob blesses all twelve of his sons despite sins we think would disqualify them. Even with Judah’s sins, he was chosen as the one through whom the King of Kings would come (Genesis 49:10). This blessing expands the covenantal blessing beyond just one heir—the pathway to become a nation too numerous to count has been put into motion. This once again highlights God’s grace—though we fall short of perfection, He still forgives and uses us for His purposes.

Chapter 50 contains one of the most powerful verses in all of Genesis. After Jacob’s death, his brothers feared that Joseph might finally seek revenge for what they had done to him. They failed to understand the perspective Joseph had gained through God’s sovereignty:

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” Genesis 50:20

Joseph recognized that God had taken what was intended for harm and used it for good—not just for his own life, but for the survival of many people.

Takeaway: We should not be quick to assume we understand God's plans, because His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8–9). The world teaches us to expect things one way, but God’s perfect plan often unfolds differently.

What might seem like a setback or injustice today could be part of a greater purpose tomorrow. Like Joseph, we must learn to trust in God’s sovereignty, knowing that He works all things together for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28).