Read: Genesis 31:17-32:12; Matthew 10:26-11:6; Psalm 13:1-6; Proverbs 3:16-18
Jacob escaped the home of Laban with everything he owned: his wives, his sons and his cattle. Laban found out and pursued him in a rage and caught up with him seven days later. It would have gone violent had not God visited Laban in a dream and told him not to speak harshly to Jacob. They did confront one another and Jacob was able to get his frustration out after all the years of abuse by Laban. There was nothing Laban could do to stop him but he wanted his household gods that had been from his house. Jacob knew nothing about them and pronounced a curse of death on whoever had stolen them. Little did he know it was Rachel. She was able to deceive her father, but her heavenly father did not let her get away with it. Those household gods were symbols of idolatry and Rachel was bringing them with her. Laban gave up when they couldn’t find them but they cost Rachel her life.
Laban and Jacob made a heap of rocks as a witness of the covenant of peace they were making. They ate, then parted ways. Jacob faced Laban and came out alive, his next obstacle would be Esau.
God will bring us back to our unfinished business because he wants us to complete the task. He wants us to face our giants and lose our fear. Jacob and Esau had parted enemies. They had both spent years apart having to work out the emotions in their hearts and now the truth would come out.
As Jacob neared Esau he didn’t know if Esau will try to kill him or whether he had found forgiveness. He reminded God of his promise to make him a great nation. Jacob did exactly what we should do when we are in a trial. We have to go back to what God has promised us.
Jesus taught that the kingdom of God was worth more than anything on the earth. It would cost your your life, but it would also save your life.
We all are faced with confrontation and our response reveals our heart. We either defend our pride or humble ourselves and choose to forgive and love.
Lord, you are the tree of eternal life. We hold on to you more than earthly life. Help us to chose love.
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