Chapter 48 is another example of how tradition is often very strong, but nevertheless can be circumvented by the plan of God. For instance, the greater blessing was traditionally reserved for the firstborn child. When Joseph brought his two sons to his dying father for his blessing, he brought them to him in a particular order. Manasseh was directed to Jacob’s right hand, for the blessing of the firstborn, and Ephraim was placed at his left hand for the other blessing. However, Jacob, the supplanter, the one who conned his brother out of his birthright and the blessing of the firstborn, crossed his hands and blessed them opposite one another. Joseph protested, but Jacob (Israel) insisted that this was God’s will. One of my favorite preachers, Dr. Tim Hill, calls this “the criss-cross blessing.” God looks at tradition as a man-made invention, and decrees His purposes, sometimes in congruence with tradition, but at other times in opposition to tradition. No matter what society or tradition says your lot in life will be, God can criss-cross the enemy and bring you into a blessed place in spite of your circumstances! God can and will overcome your obstacles if you will trust Him completely!
In Chapter 49, Jacob calls all his sons together and then speaks over them words of declaration and blessing. Reuben, the firstborn is called unstable, because of an incident in which he defiled his father’s couch. Simeon and Levi are cursed because they killed a man and operate in anger. Judah is called praiseworthy and a lion’s whelp. He is given great blessing. Zebulon will be a seafaring man, Issachar is a strong donkey, Dan will be a judge and a warrior for Israel. Gad shall win in battle, even though he suffers some loss. Asher will be rich, and Naphtali is like a deer, using beautiful words. Joseph is a fruitful bough by a well, strong and blessed and a blessing to others. Benjamin is a ravenous wolf, devouring his prey. Jacob blessed each one of them according to his will and his knowledge of them. What are you speaking over your children today? What blessings are you speaking over them, even if it is necessary for them to be by faith, in order to see those children become all God intends for them to be? Or what curses are you speaking over them that may limit them, stunt them, keep them from their destiny? Speak life, and not death. Speak blessings and not curses. God needs you to stand in the gap for your family!
Devoted To You 