Gen. 46-50 [The Message]

When aged Jacob blessed Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, he pronounced both favor and the accompanying financial inheritance upon them. This was the right and responsibility of the father. Moments later, he did he same for all his sons. To him was given prophetic insight into the days ahead. He said, “I will tell you what to expect in your future.”

This is a wonderful combination of word and deed that fathers have the privilege of sharing. When a youth lacks a loving and active father in their life, they are in a sense being robbed of one of God’s intended blessings. A father can bestow these blessings regardless of his physical condition. An old man’s words of encouragement are one of his few possible contributions, but carry the greatest accompanying value.