Beginnings: A Study In GenesisSample

What does it say?

Jacob adopted Joseph’s sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, giving a greater inheritance to Joseph’s family. Ephraim, the younger son, was prophetically given the blessing of the first-born. 

What does it mean?

When a man is about to die, he often recognizes and shares what is most important to him. Jacob knew that birthright and legal tradition were subject to the sovereign choice of God. In this case, additional portions of land were given to Joseph’s sons. All of this was setting in motion God’s plan for the land and the nation of Israel. Jacob shared his greatest blessing when he described God as the One “who has been my Shepherd all my life” and “has delivered me from all harm.” The greatest inheritance Jacob left his family was not the land God had promised—but faith in the God who keeps His promises. 

How should I respond?

Parents usually want to provide for their children to have a better life than they had. We spend countless hours working, planning and saving in order to give them what they need and much of what they desire. But how much thought have you given to building a spiritual inheritance for the next generation? Whether you are a parent, grandparent, uncle, teacher or neighbor – your life is shaping and influencing someone younger than you. What will they believe about God based on the testimony of your life? The greatest gift you have been given is faith in Jesus Christ, an eternal inheritance.