Our Choices Matter (Genesis 49)

Genesis 49:1 1 And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.

God sovereignly gives man a will. God can overrule man’s choices, but our choices also impact our future. In Genesis 49, we see God working out his plan for the nation of Israel in different ways through the lives of Jacob’s sons. Much about their future is impacted by their character and their decisions.

Reuben should have enjoyed the blessing of being the firstborn, but he would not excel due to his adultery.  Simeon and Levi would be divided because of their cruel anger at Shechem. Judah would be victorious like a warring lion ruling until the Messianic Age when there would come great peace and prosperity.

On and on the blessings came, each dictated to some degree by the choices and actions of each son. Joseph received the greatest blessing due to his faithfulness. He would have a double portion and be greatly blessed.

As we think about our future and God’s blessing, we need to understand that God can and will overrule our actions, choices, and decisions, but they also factor in to how God uses us.

If we are foolish and waste the blessings and opportunities God gives us, then we will miss out on how God might have used us. If we are wise and faithful even when mistreated (like Joseph), God may choose to bless us and use us more than we could have even imagined.

Choice is a gift from God. Our choices matter; so choose wisely who you will serve and how you follow God.