Text Reference: Genesis 47:7-10 (KJV) And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and Jacob blessed Pharaoh. 8 And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, How old art thou? 9 And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of the years of my pilgrimage are an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have the days of the years of my life been, and have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage. 10 And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh.
- Jacob’s Blessing of Pharaoh:
- Jacob, as a patriarch, blesses Pharaoh, symbolizing the supremacy of spiritual authority over worldly power.
- Despite Pharaoh’s status as a ruler and deity in Egyptian culture, Jacob, representing God’s covenant people, bestows the blessing.
- Insight: True authority comes from God, and spiritual leaders have the responsibility to intercede for and bless even secular rulers (Romans 13:1).
- Pharaoh’s Respect for Jacob:
- Pharaoh asks Jacob about his age, acknowledging the wisdom and experience of a man who walked with God.
- Leadership Principle: Even the most powerful leaders recognize the value of spiritual integrity and wisdom.
- Jacob’s Pilgrimage Perspective:
- Jacob describes his life as a “pilgrimage,” emphasizing its temporary nature. His faith was in God’s eternal promises, not in earthly possessions or achievements.
- Application: As believers, view your life as a journey guided by God. Consider: “Am I walking toward my eternal destiny and leaving a legacy of faith?”
- The Power of Blessing:
- Jacob’s blessing reflects the Abrahamic covenant: that Israel would be a blessing to the nations (Genesis 12:3).
- Application: Speak blessings over those you lead. Your words of affirmation and prayer can shape their destinies and align them with God’s purposes.
The Greater Blessing The Lessor