Ep 66 Ephraim and Manasseh, Gen 48:1-20

It's only natural to evaluate a person's potential based on the obvious resources he/she possesses. The more money, talent, good looks, education, intelligence or social standing he/she has the more we expect him/her to succeed in life. And often this proves to be true. In the world these are the things that tend to make us successful. But when we turn to spiritual matters, these benefits can quickly become obstacles. We can find ourselves trying to serve God using the world's resources. Ironically, it seems when we enter the spiritual arena, it's the people who lack such resources and advantages that frequently take the lead. In Jacob's blessing of his grandsons we see this strange twist of circumstances once again. A person with no apparent reason to be favored receives God's blessing in measures beyond someone who seemed to have a rightful claim on it. Just as had happened over the past two generations, a younger son took the blessing from his older brother. In this study we'll try to understand why this happened and then apply what we learn to us today. To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Revelation, email us at [email protected] and ask for your copy at no charge!  Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge.