- Scripture: Genesis 31:1–16
- The Anchor: “Then the Lord said to Jacob, ‘Return to the land of your fathers and to your kindred, and I will be with you.'” – Genesis 31:3 (ESV)
Jacob was cheated by Laban, but God was on his side, and he made plans about moving back to Bethel, where he built an altar in Genesis 28. Laban’s sons said that Jacob stole from Laban, but that is not true. Laban cheated Jacob 10 times by changing the terms of the agreement, but God provided for Jacob every single time. Jacob saw that he fell out of the favor of Laban, and God told him to move back to Bethel in a dream. He explained this to his wives and they understood and supported him.
We see God’s providence in this passage. Whenever Laban changed the terms, God changed the outcome to favor Jacob. Our God is always with us and at all times, God does what is best for us. Sometimes, that even includes blessing us like He did with Jacob in this passage.
Jacob had the desire to go back to Bethel. Now, Jacob’s situation gets worse and God directly tells him to go back. Many times, God makes signs clear for us right in front of our faces. It’s our job to listen to God’s commands. Instead of staying and working for Laban, Jacob followed God and left Laban, trusting that God will provide for him wherever he goes.
Reflection
- Laban changed the agreement ten times to cheat Jacob, but God changed the outcome every single time to favor him. When people treat you unfairly or change the rules on you, do you lose your peace, or do you trust that God is doing what is best for you?
- God made the signs clear right in front of Jacob’s face by letting his situation get worse so he would finally leave for Bethel. As you balance Sunday services, hanging out with friends, and events like (FACt)³, are you keeping your eyes open to listen and obey God’s commands?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your constant providence and for being with me at all times. Thank You that no matter how others try to cheat or change the terms on me, You change the outcome for my good. Make Your signs and commands clear right in front of my face, and give me the faith to follow You instantly. Amen.