God’s Favor of Jacob
“Unless the God of my father, the God of Abraham and the Fear of Isaac, had been with me, surely now you would have sent me away empty-handed. God has seen my affliction and the labor of my hands, and rebuked you last night.”
Jacob, at God’s instruction, finally left his association with his uncle Laban. Laban’s attitude had changed negatively toward Jacob, and Laban’s sons were beginning to resent how successful and prosperous Jacob had become. Even when given the worst of the flocks as a wage, somehow Jacob’s animals did better than Laban’s. This was a blessing from God.
Jacob left secretly with his family, flocks and possessions. When Laban heard of Jacob’s departure, he pursued and overtook him. Laban meant to do harm to Jacob to bring him back, but a dream from God instructed Laban to not harm Jacob (verse 24). Laban heeded the dream and made peace with Jacob.
God is aware of the bad situations we find ourselves in. Jacob did what was right and worked hard despite bad circumstances—and God protected him from Laban. God watches out for His people who are genuinely striving to do what He commands (Psalm 33:18-19).
To learn more about God’s protection and help, read “Encouraging Bible Verses.”
Tomorrow on the Daily Bible Verse Blog: “Jacob Prepares to Meet Esau.”
