Church Family,

This past Sunday, we explored another unique story in Genesis.  It is actually one of many stories over the last couple of weeks that can cause frustration at the lack of integrity we see in the bible.  But upon a prayerful investigation of the text, we see God confronting deceitfulness with His discipline.  He does not let His people get away with it.  Jacob needs to understand that he cannot use deception as a tool to get what he wants.  If he is to carry the covenant and represent God, he must deal in truth.  How does Jacob get this wonderful lesson?  Through Laban (Gen 29).  Laban deceives Jacob by giving him Leah instead of Rachel.  Through Laban, Jacob tastes the bitterness of deceit.  He now knows without a doubt that truthfulness is the way God’s people function.  He takes this deceit and perseveres another seven years to win Rachel’s hand in marriage.  The Lord disciplines Jacob through seeing the effects of deceit firsthand.  What a loving Father we have that loves us enough not to leave us the way we are!  “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him.  For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives” (Heb 12:5–6).

 

Let Us Pray!

We will gather this Wednesday, May 26, to pray.  Join us at 6 pm as we rejoice and seek the Lord through prayer.

 

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Bryan