Joseph (2)

Genesis 49:22–26 GW

22 “Joseph is a fruitful tree,  a fruitful tree by a spring,  with branches climbing over a wall.  23 Archers provoked him,  shot at him,  and attacked him.  24 But his bow stayed steady, and his arms remained limber  because of the help of the Mighty One of Jacob,  because of the name of the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel,  25 because of the God of your father who helps you,  because of the Almighty who gives you  blessings from the heavens above,  blessings from the deep springs below the ground,  blessings from breasts and womb.  26 The blessings of your father are greater than  the blessings of the oldest mountains  and the riches of the ancient hills.  May these blessings rest on the head of Joseph,  on the crown of the prince among his brothers. 

Background

first born son of Rachel - Jacob’s favorite wife

most favored son - given a special coat

received special dreams and was given an ability to interpret others dreams - all of which came true.

Joseph is Favored and Fruitful (22)

favorite of his father

but even outside of His father’s home, he was fruitful - “over the wall” - he became a source of blessing to so many others -

Ephraim’s name means fruitful

Manasseh - refers to things forgotten

receiving the birthright through his two sons, Joseph became truly blessed among the tribes

Joseph was Forsaken (23)

Jacob may be looking back to the way that the brothers treated Joseph.

attacked - 37:24

Sold into slavery - 37:28

wrongfully accused - 39:20

Joseph is Faithful because he is Fortified (24-25)

In spite of the difficulties of his life, Joseph remained steadfast - he remained sure - did not compromise his character

…because God was with him - God was helping - his hands became strong/sure because God’s capable hands were upholding him.

the fortification from God is “of the deep” - from within.

I think it’s important that we consider carefully this observation - we may face challenges and may be oppressed, but it does not mean that we should compromise - that our conviction and ethics should not be circumstantially maintained.

Finally...

Joseph is Flourishing (26)

this “lavish” blessing exceeds even the blessing that Jacob received over Esau. Joseph would be preeminent - “prince among his brothers.”

In light of this, what should we pray?

for us?

for our children/grand-children…?

for our church?

for our community?