Reflections: Where is the LORD in This? - Jacob and Esau Part Three

Reflections: Where is the LORD in This?

Jacob and Esau Part Three

Genesis 29.1 - 31.21

“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land.  I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised” - The LORD (Genesis 28.15)

“If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking ... then the LORD will be my God.” - Jacob (Genesis 28.20 - .22)

On a quick reading of Jacob’s story from this point until he returns home, it is hard to see that the LORD is watching over Jacob.  For instance, Jacob arrives in Paddam Aram meets Rachel and falls in love with her.  He makes a deal with Laban to marry her after 7 years of work and Laban agrees.  When the time comes for the wedding Jacob ends up marrying Leah instead.  So, after a little confrontation, Jacob has to work another 7 years in order to marry Rachel.  How was the LORD looking over Jacob here?

Then Lea and Rachel have what can best be described as a baby making contest between each other.  This contest cause the family to become a toxic place.  The family conflict started here will ripple throughout the rest of the Book of Genesis.  Where is the LORD in this?

Jacob’s time in Paddam Aram is not a happy time.  He has been tricked by his uncle Laban.  His family is ripping itself apart.  But the LORD is with Jacob.  Towards the end of this part of his journey Jacob asks Laban for permission to leave.  Laban essentially won’t let him go but the LORD comes to Jacob’s aid.  The LORD tells Jacob what to do in order to have a large flock of sheep and goats.  The LORD also warns Jacob that it is time to go.

It is not always to see where the LORD is in a bad situation.  We may think He is not watching over us, but the LORD is always there with us.  We are His people.