Blessed, Prevailing, and Forgetting

Asher means “Happy am I.” Jacob said, “Bread from Asher shall be rich, and he shall yield royal dainties” (Genesis 49:20). Moses also wrote, “Asher is most blessed of sons; let him be favored by his brothers, and let him dip his foot in oil” (Deuteronomy 33:24). Oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, and the one whose feet are anointed with the Spirit will pass over rough places in life with a heart full of praise and thanksgiving. To the one who makes the Holy Spirit a guide, God assures, “As your days, so shall your strength be” (Deuteronomy 33:25).

Naphtali means “For my wrestling.” Of Naphtali, we read, “He uses beautiful words” (Genesis 49:21). Free from the burdens and responsibilities of his older brothers, Naphtali took to writing. His “beautiful words” were an encouragement and a blessing to Israel, and he represents those who take up the power of the pen in the work of saving souls from destruction.

Manasseh means “God is making me forget.” Early on, Manasseh failed to gain the territory given to them by the Lord (Joshua 17:12). Half of the tribe of Manasseh, rather than living in the Promised Land, chose to abide outside of it (Numbers 32:33). When falsely accused of idolatry, Manasseh was longsuffering with his brethren and did not retaliate (Joshua 22:10–34). Ultimately, although Manasseh was far from Jerusalem and the temple, they were foremost in accepting the reforms of the good kings of Judah (2 Chronicles 15:9; 30:1, 18).

The church is comprised of many people with varying characteristics. As Paul writes, “So we, being many, are one body in Christ” (Romans 12:5). Each of the talents given, whether it be wealth, penmanship, or longsuffering and faithfulness, all work together to form a powerful force for good in the world as the church focuses on its mission of seeking and saving the lost.

Heavenly Father, grant us a place in Your work in these last days and help us to use our talents to Your glory and for the salvation of many.

For Further Study: Luke 2:36; 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10; Colossians 3:17

Key Bible Texts

Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nepthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand. (Revelation 7:6 KJV)