January 14, 2009

  • Ephraim

    Genesis 41:51-52, Joseph named the firstborn Manasseh, "For," he said, "God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father's household."  He named the second Ephraim, "For," he said, "God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction."

    A familiar story.  Joseph, sold into slavery by his own brothers.  Working in the home of Potiphar.  Betrayed by Potiphar's wife.  Wrongly convicted.  Imprisoned.  But how things change...

    God placed Joseph before Pharaoh.  Through an interpretation of a dream, Joseph became overseer of the land.  Second to Pharaoh. 

    Ephraim.  God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.

    What is my affliction?  God will make me fruitful in my affliction.  I am confident.  My hope is in him.  Ephraim.