The Family Saga Continues (Jan 25)

Jacob, during his 20 years of work for his Uncle Laban, was blessed abundantly and as a result, Laban and his sons were complaining about Laban's loss of everything.  Over time changes occured in: Laban's method of paying Jacob, Laban's attitude toward Joseph, the flocks offspring; and Rachel and Leah's sense of belonging changing from Laban to Jacob.  Yet a primary concern of Rachel is of an inheritance, and as a result, unknown to Jacob, Rachel steals the "household gods" thus giving many rights to her husband Jacob..

Ever watchful, God gives instructions to Jacob to leave Laban and go back to his native land.  He later instructs Laban, in persuit of Jacob, to not say anything good or bad to Jacob.  Laban catches Jacob and looks for the "household gods" however is unable to find them, for Rachel, with the gods hidden in her saddle, will not dismount her horse for she,  is on her period. 

Jacob claims protection from God, the God of Abraham.  Laban states that Jacob has his daughters and grandchildren.  As a result, stones are heaped up by Jacob and Laban to serve as a witness so that the Lord may keep watch between Jacob and Laban while they are apart.  A sacrifice was made and Jacob and Laban parted.

En route to Jacob's homeland, with concerns of Esau's anger, Jacob does some excellent military planning for an attack by an angry Esau.  This planning was unneeded, for as we will read tomorrow, Esau held no anger.

Jacob wrestles with God.  Here we learn of the origin of the Jewish tradition of not eating the tendon attached to the hip, for that was where Jacob was touched by God.

Wha attributes of God do you see?

Provider
Protector
Comforter
Leader
Strong
Courageous
Mighty
Personal
and others might come to mind.

In this world of changing attitudes, to what do you cling for strength and comfort?  God's plan or something else?

How do you follow Jacob's example in his response to God's call with a "Here I am" and compliance?

In what areas do you wrestle with God? 



Pray for the light to shine to show where you are wrestling with God, and for the Spirit to provide strength, courage, and wisdom to change.


In  Christ.


David P