March 31, 2026 WEST

In today's study, we journey through Genesis 48 where we witness Jacob—now Israel—blessing Joseph's sons in a way that defies custom and tradition. What stands out powerfully is how Israel crosses his hands, placing his right hand on the younger Ephraim instead of the firstborn Manasseh. This deliberate act reveals something profound: God's greater blessing sometimes comes when we're willing to break from tradition and follow the Holy Spirit's leading. We're challenged to examine our own lives and ask: Is there something God is asking us to do that goes against custom or expectation, something that could produce a blessing far beyond what we've known? We also see the beautiful tension between our given names and our covenant names—sometimes we live as Jacob, sometimes as Israel. As long as we're in these bodies, we'll struggle between flesh and spirit, but the chapter ends with only Israel being mentioned, reminding us that our covenant identity ultimately prevails. The hope restored in this passage is breathtaking: a father who thought his son was dead suddenly sees not only Joseph alive but his grandchildren too. This speaks to every parent praying for lost children—don't lose hope, even at midnight, God can resurrect what seemed dead and bring restoration beyond what we imagined.