AWAKE BIBLE IN A YEAR JANUARY 15
READ GENESIS 30-33
The thing about studying the bible is there are a million different tangents I might research. And how to chose? There are volumes of material to be understood, researched, and devoured. Oh Lord keep me hungry.
Today I was taken by the mandrakes. Only twice mentioned in the bible. That was some fun research.
Next I was interested in the story of Jacob and Laban and their wages/breeding negotiation.
Throughout Genesis God’s direction is reliable.
An important part of this story that many people miss LIKE THE WAY YOU FLY PAST A RIGHT HAND TURN… is given in Gen 31. AS WE READ we find out God had showed Jacob what was going to happen in a dream with Laban.
“In the breeding season of the flock I lifted up my eyes and saw in a dream that the goats that mated with the flock were striped, spotted, and mottled. Then the angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob,’ and I said, ‘Here I am!’ And he said, ‘Lift up your eyes and see, all the goats that mate with the flock are striped, spotted, and mottled, for I have seen all that Laban is doing to you. I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed a pillar and made a vow to me. Now arise, go out from this land and return to the land of your kindred.’” (Genesis 31:10–13)
Within genetics there are complexities about the color of goats /sheep wool 🐐 and those in the field of genetics study it extensively today. If you want to read more about the possible reasoning with the branches check out the link below.
https://answersingenesis.org/genetics/animal-genetics/jacobs-odd-breeding-program-genesis-30/
God gave Jacob direction, and this direction guided his business.
God is able to direct and guide your business as well. Not only can God guide us in our work but in our restorative attempts at peace. IN the very places were we are solely to blame and the anger is rightfully directed at us, God is able to restore. Jacob wrestles internally and externally before he attempts peace with his brother.
He is physically wrestling with a man who won’t give his name. Just before daybreak their exchange becomes life altering for Jacob. Proverbs is correct the eyes of the Lord are everywhere and he takes note of everything that happens. (Proverbs 15:3 TPT) Jacob has been in a struggle with men and God from his birth. Consider his life so far, named Jacob for heel grabbing onto his brother Esau, struggling over wages and wives given by Laban, and the constant challenges of deceit and manipulation are all around him. An internal conflict must be brewing within him returning to his home and facing the feared wrath of Esau.
The attempts at peacemaking with his twin Esau are sent with gifts, and risk is taken. The reward is so sweet Jacob describes it as seeing the face of God.
“No, please; if I find favor with you, then accept my present from my hand; for truly to see your face is like seeing the face of God….” Gen. 33:10.
