Caribbean Moravian Devotions

Is Ephraim my dear son? Is he the child I delight in? As often as I speak against him, I still remember him. Therefore I am deeply moved for him, says the Lord. Jeremiah 31: 20

Ephraim was the younger of JosephÂ’s two sons. He and his brother Manasseh were blessed by Jacob. Ephraim was however elevated above his brother in the blessing and the reality of this blessing was proven in the leadership of Joshua, Samuel and Jeroboam 1, all sons of that tribe. Being an important tribe and having settled in a sheltered area where they were able to prosper. This region became central to the kingdom of Israel and soon the name Ephraim became synonymous with the name Israel. Ephraim then, or Israel, is here described as GodÂ’s dear son, the child of His delight. This is against the background of IsraelÂ’s people being killed or about to be deported to Babylonian captivity. There is a word of hope even at this most terrible hour for the favored people of God. God will not forget them and thus God will act on their behalf. What seemed like the end to Israel was not the end.

Friends, there are times when we too are at the end of hope and are certain that this is the end. God however never forgets His servants, even when we, through our actions and words turn our backs on Him. It is when we are at our worse that we see the best that God has to offer us. Babylonian captivity was to lead to legendary figures like Daniel, Shadrack, Meshack and Abednigo. A lot of IsraelÂ’s writings came out of this period also. We never know what God has in store for us and at times what seems harsh and terrible may well turn out to be of great benefit to us. Many times what seems like the end is but a pathway to a new beginning of new blessings. Do not fear what is around the corner, rather trust God who knows what is there and is committed to carry you through.

Remember, when you are down, you are just as dear as ever to God, and He still takes pleasure in your good. While God may be displeased with your turning away from the right path, He will always remember you. For this reason God will act on your behalf to bring about the desired changes in your life. Like Ephraim you are special to God and a recipient of God favor, especially when you need it most. You are always dear to God.

Till next Tuesday, be blessed!