Manasseh and Ephraim – Last Days of Israel (Jacob)

Ever wonder how God chooses the people He uses? Sometimes, He picks those we least expect—people who might feel unqualified, overlooked, or even the “younger sibling.” The story of Manasseh and Ephraim in Genesis 48 offers a simple reminder that God’s plans are bigger than our assumptions.

Blessing of Joseph’s Sons: Manasseh and Ephraim

When Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand on Ephraim’s head, it displeased him; and he grasped his father’s hand to remove it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s head.

Joseph said to his father, “Not so, my father, for this one is the firstborn. Place your right hand on his head.”

But his father refused and said, “I know, my son, I know; he also will become a people and he also will be great. However, his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his descendants shall become a multitude of nations.” – Genesis 48:17-19

What happened to Manasseh and Ephraim?

Jacob deliberately placed his right hand on Ephraim, the younger son, crossing tradition and expectations. Why? Because God had revealed His plan to Jacob, even in the last days of Jacob (Israel). Ephraim was chosen to receive the greater blessing, not Manasseh.

Joseph might have thought he knew better, but Jacob made it clear that this blessing was intentional. God’s guidance had directed him, just as He had throughout Jacob’s life. For the full story of Jacob settling in Egypt, you can read more here.

Why Jacob did it:
This was not a mistake. God had revealed to Jacob that Ephraim, the younger son, would receive the greater blessing. His descendants were destined to grow into a multitude of nations. This shows that God’s plans often go against human expectations and traditions.

The God Factor

God often works in ways we don’t expect. He doesn’t just look at age, strength, or visible talent. Instead, He examines the heart and calls those He knows can carry out His plan. Just like with Manasseh and Ephraim, God’s choice can surprise us.

Throughout Scripture, we see that God uses imperfect people to fulfill His purposes:

• Paul (formerly Saul), who once persecuted Christians
• David, a younger son who became Israel’s greatest king
• Samson, who had many personal flaws

It’s a clear pattern: when God calls, He equips. Background, social standing, or perceived weaknesses don’t matter.

God Called Manasseh and Ephraim – He Calls Us Too!

So what about us today? Even if we feel unqualified, God can still use us. Perhaps He will ask you to do something that seems far beyond your abilities—but with God, all things are possible.

We just need one thing: willingness. As the story of Manasseh and Ephraim shows, God is always qualified, and He is faithful to accomplish His plans through those who trust Him.

Love in Christ,

– Bob

If you want to explore more Bible lessons like this one, visit Making Christ Known. For a deeper understanding of God’s love, you can also read John 3:16 here.

*Verses from New American Standard Bible (NASB).