Genesis 29-31

Genesis 29-31

Jacob had success. He made it to Laban's place. He saw Rachel. She had such servitude. Jacob also wanted to serve her, helping her water her sheep (as she was a shepherdess). When he saw Laban, he was lovingly embraced and welcomed (29:11-13). It is such a difference compared to how he left his family where his brother had nothing but hatred for him. Only God can bring us to a place where we experience love from others, not hate. Even when we suffer from others, God will give us strength! Look at the change for Jacob: from Esau to Laban's initial reaction. We know Laban is somewhat manipulative, and this time spent here will be interesting indeed. Jacob will have to keep his eyes open!

The time comes after one month where Laban sets up the wages of Jacob. He would serve him for 7 years in exchange for Rachel (Laban's younger daughter). While the week long marriage ceremony is going on, Laban decided to manipulate Jacob. He would give Leah to Jacob instead, only Jacob would not find out until the morning and and after the ceremony would begin. Laban deceived Jacob. Jacob had great love for Rachel. He would serve an additional 7 years as a bride price for Rachel- the one whom he loves. Leah was the one giving off offspring to Jacob. Rachel's womb was barren, while Leah sought to bear Jacob's children in hopes that Jacob would come to love her. Leah gave Jacob 7 children and still hoped he would love her more than Rachel. Finally, Rachel is able to give Jacob a child: Joseph!

Jacob's Desire to Leave

Jacob goes to Laban to discuss their departing from him. Jacob makes a deal with Laban, but Laban goes around removing all the animals he agreed to give Jacob, sending them off with his sons (30:33-35). The deceitfulness of this man! Why is he not able to deal fairly, and do what he says he will do?!? His hurting Jacob would also hurt her daughters, which would hurt him in the long run.

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

30:25-43 The fourteen years being gone, Jacob was willing to depart without any provision, except God's promise. But he had in many ways a just claim on Laban's substance, and it was the will of God that he should be provided for from it. He referred his cause to God, rather than agree for stated wages with Laban, whose selfishness was very great. And it would appear that he acted honestly, when none but those of the colours fixed upon should be found among his cattle. Laban selfishly thought that his cattle would produce few different in colour from their own. Jacob's course after this agreement has been considered an instance of his policy and management. But it was done by intimation from God, and as a token of his power. The Lord will one way or another plead the cause of the oppressed, and honour those who simply trust his providence. Neither could Laban complain of Jacob, for he had nothing more than was freely agreed that he should have; nor was he injured, but greatly benefitted by Jacob's services. May all our mercies be received with thanksgiving and prayer, that coming from his bounty, they may lead to his praise.

Jacob's flock would be stronger than Laban's!

Laban didn't view Jacob with favor anymore; it was time for Jacob and his family to go. God promises to be with Jacob as he makes this journey. Notice there was a command with a promise. (31:3) Whatever God tells us to do, we need to do. God will provide for us! We just need to stay obedient to Him!

Genesis 31:42 says: "If the God of my father, the God of Abraham and the Fear of Isaac, had not been with me, you would surely have sent me away empty-handed. But God has seen my hardship and the toil of my hands, and last night he rebuked you."

God sees it all! God saw all Jacob had done and how he was treated, and chose to bless Jacob!
Obedience.

Obedience.
God worked it all out for His ultimate good. Jacob is abundantly blessed. Even though there was great manipulation from Laban, God worked it all out for his good. God chose to bless Jacob, his children, and wives as they followed Him!