Twice Fruitful

I bless you to be as Ephraim—
The name that means “twice fruitful.”

God blessed your earliest ancestors to “be fruitful and multiply
and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion” (Gen. 1:28),
and His will has not changed.
He has likewise destined you to “bear much fruit” (John 15:8).

You’re a sower, a spiritual farmer,
whose harvest will come in due season.
I bless the seed you have in the ground.
May all your good, hard work sprout and grow
 into sweet fruit containing more seed.
I bless the seed you have in your hand—
the good intentions and investments of your life
that you are now scattering.

Remember, the smallest seed can grow into the greatest,
most fruitful tree.

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Part of today’s blessing is excerpted from the parting blessing in my new book, The Power to Bless, releasing February 2 (Baker Books). Pre-order it todayand you’ll get a free audiobook!

For 3700 years, Jewish dads have been blessing their kids with the words, “God make you as Ephraim and Manasseh” and no one seems to know why. I’m convinced that part of the reason is the meaning of “Ephraim” (“twice fruitful”). Fruitfulness is different (and better) than mere hard work and success. Fruitfulness is a byproduct of abiding in Christ. And that’s the Gospel!