- Scripture: Genesis 32:1–21
- The Anchor: “Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. And when Jacob saw them he said, ‘This is God’s camp!’ So he called the name of that place Mahaneim.” – Genesis 32:1–2 (ESV)
Jacob gets ready to meet Esau again. The last time we heard of Esau was when Jacob fled from him because Esau threatened to kill Jacob for stealing his blessing. Jacob settled at a place called Mahaneim, or double camp, because there were two camps: Jacob’s camp and God’s camp. Jacob sent a letter to Esau about how he has been successful and he is looking for peace, but he gets intimidated when it is said that Esau is coming with 400 men. Jacob feared heavily, so he split the camp into two separate camps to mobilize his people. Next, Jacob finally prays to God for help, reminding Him of His promise. Jacob then prepared many many live animals as gifts for Esau to be peaceful.
It is established that the place was a double camp, with Jacob’s camp and God’s camp. God’s presence was on the land, and He was there with Jacob. Yet, Jacob gets scared and he panics by trying to figure out things on his own. First, he splits the camp into two for one of the groups to escape and at the end, he prepares a HUGE gift for Esau. The only other mention of God is when Jacob prays in the middle. I think it’s very good that Jacob prayed to God, but what’s not good is how Jacob turned away from God and into himself again right after he prayed.
I think we have to pray more, and just be more aware that God is always here with us. The dwelling place of God is with man. In this passage, the double camp is a real place, but now, God lives in us through the Holy Spirit. We are able to rely on the Holy Spirit and remember God’s presence.
Reflection
- Jacob stood right next to the literal camp of God, yet he still panicked and tried to figure out his problems entirely on his own. When you hit a stressful situation, do you step right back into your own frantic planning immediately after you pray?
- The double camp was a physical location for Jacob, but today God lives inside us through the Holy Spirit. In the middle of combined sports practices, talking to friends, and navigating your week, how can you rely more intentionally on the Holy Spirit’s presence?
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for the times I turn right back into myself and my own schemes immediately after I pray to You. Thank You that Your dwelling place is now inside me through the Holy Spirit. Help me to pray more and to remain constantly aware that You are always right here with me. Amen.