God's Sovereign Choice

Genesis 48:8–14 (NASB95)

8When Israel saw Joseph’s sons, he said, “Who are these?” 9Joseph said to his father, “They are my sons, whom God has given me here.” So he said, “Bring them to me, please, that I may bless them.” 10Now the eyes of Israel were so dim from age that he could not see. Then Joseph brought them close to him, and he kissed them and embraced them. 11Israel said to Joseph, “I never expected to see your face, and behold, God has let me see your children as well.” 12Then Joseph took them from his knees, and bowed with his face to the ground. 13Joseph took them both, Ephraim with his right hand toward Israel’s left, and Manasseh with his left hand toward Israel’s right, and brought them close to him. 14But Israel stretched out his right hand and laid it on the head of Ephraim, who was the younger, and his left hand on Manasseh’s head, crossing his hands, although Manasseh was the firstborn.

Commentary – God's Sovereign Choice

As Jacob prepared to bless Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, we see a moment rich in symbolism and divine purpose. With failing eyesight, Jacob asked who the boys were, a formal question that began the blessing process. His joy was clear as he reflected on how God had not only allowed him to see Joseph again but also blessed him with the opportunity to meet his grandchildren. Joseph carefully positioned his sons before Jacob, expecting the elder, Manasseh, to receive the greater blessing as was customary. However, Jacob, led by God’s will, crossed his arms and placed his right hand on Ephraim, the younger, giving him the blessing of greater prominence. 

This moment is part of a recurring biblical theme where God chooses the younger over the elder to fulfill His purposes, as seen with Isaac over Ishmael and Jacob over Esau. It is not human tradition or expectation that defines God's plan but His sovereign will. This reversal of expectations reminds us that God’s ways are higher than ours, and He often works through unexpected means to accomplish His purposes. As we will see in the next verses, despite Joseph’s attempt to correct what he thought was a mistake, Jacob firmly declared that Ephraim would surpass his older brother, though both would become great. 

The significance of this blessing extends far beyond the immediate context. Ephraim and Manasseh became two of the most prominent tribes in Israel, fulfilling the promises Jacob spoke over them. Ephraim's tribe would later lead the northern kingdoms of Israel, further demonstrating the importance of this moment. This act also reinforces God's pattern of grace, where blessings come not by human merit or order but by His divine choice. 

Jacob’s blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh reminds the church that God’s plans often defy human expectations. Like Jacob crossing his hands, God’s purposes may seem unconventional or even surprising to us, but they are always perfect. This is a call for believers to trust in His sovereignty, even when events in life seem out of order or unexpected. Additionally, Jacob’s joy at seeing his grandsons reminds us to reflect on God’s blessings in our own lives, even amidst hardship. As a church, we are called to celebrate the unexpected ways God works in our lives and to trust that His plans are far greater than we can imagine. Let us remain open to His leading, confident in His wisdom and grace. 

Blessings,  

Ryan Goodnight