Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.
Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
It's understandable to wonder why the details of this passage are included. And it's a reminder that not all the actions of God's people are to be taken as a good example. However, we see again how God uses the sinful and deceptive actions of human beings to further his purposes - here in blessing Jacob with wealth that will support the nation being born through his sons. We also see God protecting his chosen family by urging Jacob to return home and warning Laban when he started to become a threat (31v3, 13, 24, 29). As his protection of Christ's family later shows (Matt 2v13), nothing and no-one can stand against his purposes. As you read note the ways God continues to bless Jacob.
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.