Jacob Meets Esau, Genesis 33

Posted on May 20, 2016 by KD Manes under Bible Study

Jacob looked up and there was Esau, coming with his four hundred men.” –Genesis 33:1

Twenty years have passed since Jacob cheated Esau of his birthright and blessing. For twenty long years, Jacob most likely imagined how and when Esau would settle the score.

After a unique wrestling match with God, however, we witness a change in Jacob. No longer enslaved to the domination of fear and deceit, God changes Jacob’s name to Israel. This signifies his changing character, (see Jacob Wrestles With God).

Chapter 33 marks an important time in Jacob’s life. You may read Genesis 33 here: Bible Gateway.

With a new limp, Jacob boldly precedes his family in meeting Esau and his 400 men. Using precautionary measures, he bows to the ground seven times before Esau. This was an ancient court protocol used before kings.

Esau’s Response

Men didn’t run in Esau’s culture. But Esau breaks the cultural norm and sprints toward his brother. Jacob’s heart must have felt like it would explode. Would this be his end?

Amazingly, Esau embraces Jacob in a big bear hug. Esau’s kiss indicates forgiveness. And the two brothers weep. . . . I would have loved to see their reunion!

Esau’s refusal to accept Jacob’s herds as gifts shows he is not the taker that Jacob has been. But upon Jacob’s insistence, Esau finally does accept the gifts. The word gift is translated from a word that means blessing. By receiving the gifts, Esau grants Jacob the opportunity to feel forgiven.

Jacob’s Response

Jacob’s comparison of Esau’s face likened to God’s face expresses his profound relief in Esau’s acceptance of him.

Although Jacob claims he is headed to Seir, he travels to Succoth instead. Scripture doesn’t say why. But this is the exact opposite direction from Esau. Did he fear that their reconciled relationship might be in jeopardy if they lived side by side? Did he reason that the land couldn’t support both of them for pastures? Did he fear facing his father?

Sadly, Jacob would never see his father again (unless Scripture didn’t record it). In fact, the next time Jacob and Esau would meet up again in Scripture is 27 years later at Isaac’s graveside (35:29).

Against God’s directive to settle in Bethel (28:21; 31:3, 13), Jacob settles near the city of Shechem instead. This is where Jacob builds his first altar, (just as Grandpa Abraham had done when entering Canaan).

Jacob names this altar El-Elohe-Israel, which means “the mighty God is the God of Israel.” This is the first record in which an altar is named. By using his new name, Israel, Jacob not only acknowledges God as the God, but also as his God.

Reflect

In Esau’s case, time did heal old wounds. I love that both brothers came to the conclusion that their real estate wasn’t nearly as important as their relationship.

Although Esau usually gets a bad rap, I really admire his example of not allowing bitterness to rule his life. Instead, he chooses forgiveness. Esau also demonstrated contentment with what he had.

As in Esau’s case, life dishes out times when we feel cheated. What can we do when we feel cheated and used?

The Psalms are full of honest expressions and cries for God’s help. We can also express our hurt, anger, and disappointment to God. And then—with God’s help—choose to forgive and not be bound to bitterness.

Have a great week!

Jacob Wrestles With God, Genesis 32:22-32

Posted on May 13, 2016 by KD Manes under Bible Study

That night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two maidservants and his eleven sons and crossed the ford of the Jabbok. After he had sent them across the stream, he sent over all his possessions. So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak.” –Genesis 32:22-24

I would love to be an owl in a nearby tree and watch this fascinating event unfold.

You may read Genesis 32:22-32 here: Bible Gateway.

Several questions surface after reading this passage. Here’s what I’ve learned so far.

Why did Jacob send everyone on ahead as he stayed behind prior to meeting up with Esau?

After 20 years to ponder how—or when—Esau might kill him (for cheating Esau of both his birthright and blessings), tomorrow would be the big day. Would Jacob live or die?

Distressed and terrified, Jacob lagged behind to pray. Hosea 12:3-5 tells us that Jacob’s wrestling not only involved physical tenacity, but also weeping and supplication.

Is this passage to be taken as an allegory or literal account?

It seems apparent that the writer of this passage (probably originally Jacob) meant for this account to be taken literally. Even the name Jabbok means “Wrestler” in memory of Jacob’s amazing experience. If Jacob ever chalked his experience up to just being a dream, he had a permanent limp to remind him of his physical wrestling match.

Layman’s Bible Commentary notes: “The man [Jacob’s wrestling opponent] is deliberately crippling Jacob at the point of his greatest strength [the thigh being the largest and strongest muscle connection of the body].”

“Therefore to this day the Israelites do not eat the tendon attached to the socket of the hip, because the socket of Jacob’s hip was touched near the tendon,” (vs. 32).

Hmm . . . an interesting development, especially prior to meeting Esau. Jacob would be weak from wrestling all night. Definitely not in his best fighting form!

But why would God send Jacob off limping (besides a reminder of this unique encounter)?

The Apostle Paul—who had a lengthy list of credentials—said: “If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.” (2 Corinthians 11:30). Why?

Our weakness, when given to God, gives Him an opportunity to fill us with His power. God was teaching Jacob to rely on Him instead of relying solely on his smarts and energy. Henry Morris (The Genesis Record) writes: “He [Jacob] must know fully his own weakness, but even more he must know the power of God and his right to claim that power.”

I think God was teaching Jacob to look at the big picture, instead of focusing so much on his stressful situation of meeting Esau again. There was more at stake here. God had an important mission for Jacob. For the Messiah would come through his descendants.

Was Jacob’s wrestling opponent a man, an angel, or God?

Angels often appeared in the form of men in those days. The passage from Hosea 12:3-5 also indicates that Jacob “had power over the angel, and prevailed.” However, according to Jacob, this was no ordinary angel: “Because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared,” (vs. 30). So Jacob names the place Peniel, which means “face of God”.

But how could Jacob touch (and see) God’s face and still live?

Morris writes: “This would have been utterly impossible, had not God veiled Himself in human form (Exodus 33:20; 1 Timothy 6:16).

If the man was God, why does verse 25 say He couldn’t overpower Jacob (vs. 25)?

Morris explains: “This, of course, does not suggest that God was weaker than Jacob, but does show that God desires men to persist in prayer and that He delights to yield to such prayers. . . . There is such a thing as prevailing prayer, when the request conforms to the will and the word of God, (Luke 18:7; Luke 18:1). Jacob’s experience symbolizes all such prayers.”

What is the significance of God changing Jacob’s name to Israel?

God gave some Bible people new names to symbolize how God had changed their lives. In fact, Revelation 2:17 says: “To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.”

These white stones are significant because they represent new hearts that God has cleansed from sin. The new names given show that God has accepted and declared his children not guilty.

Israel means “he struggles with God”. Jacob, the ambitious “heel-grabbing” deceiver had grown to one who struggles with God and overcomes. Morris also notes that Israel means “One Who Fights Victoriously with God.” It has also been rendered “A Prince with God” and is translated in this verse, “as a prince hast thou power.”

Reflect

I love that God answered Jacob’s prayer in such a personal way: in the form of a real wrestling match! Jacob, who had formerly twisted situations and manipulated people probably never imagined that he would literally wrestle God (and learn some important lessons in the process!) God definitely knows how to get our individual attention. He longs for a personal relationship with each of us (Revelation 3:20).

God is still in the business of transforming lives. God initiates the change, but we must press on if we want to grow in Christ-like character.

I love that God can take the weak and broken strands of our lives and weave them into something beautiful for His purpose. . . . Have a terrific week!

Jacob Prepares to Meet Esau, Genesis 32:1-21

Posted on May 6, 2016 by KD Manes under Bible Study

Early the next morning Laban kissed his grandchildren and his daughters and blessed them. Then he left and returned home. Jacob also went his way, and the angels of God met him.” – Genesis 31:55-32:1

After Laban departs from Jacob on good terms, Jacob obeys God and travels on to Canaan. You may read Genesis 32:1-21 here: Bible Gateway.

God Sends Angels to Meet Jacob

Why did God send angels to meet Jacob?

Fear and distress overwhelmed Jacob at the report of Esau’s 400 men. How often did Jacob replay Esau’s threat of killing him over the past 20 years? Weekly? Daily?

Not only did Jacob cheat his brother of his birthright (25:33), but he also stole the family blessing from him (25:29-27:42).

But God reassures Jacob of His protection by giving him a glimpse of the angels’ presence. Jacob names the place Mahanaim, which means “double host” or “double camp”.

The Bible records many instances of angels intervening in human situations. Perhaps Jacob recognizes these angels from his previous dream (see Jacob’s Dream At Bethel).

Jacob Prepares to Meet Esau

(my-savior-lives.tumbler.com)

First, Jacob would iron out the physical details of his trip (vs. 3-8). When he learns of Esau coming to meet him, he divides the people and animals into two groups. If Esau attacks, he thought, the group that is left may escape (vs. 8).

Jacob sends messengers on ahead to shower his brother with gifts. He applies wisdom in the wording that he instructs his servants to use: He calls Esau “lord” and humbles himself as his servant.

Maybe, just maybe, he could buy Esau’s favor. Perhaps the 550-plus animals would be viewed as an act of reconciliation. Or maybe Esau would realize that Jacob isn’t returning for his inheritance after all since Jacob is already wealthy.

After doing everything he can to physically prepare in meeting Esau, Jacob preps spiritually. His prayer in verses 9-12 is the first and only extended prayer in Genesis. Jacob’s prayer could be summarized as the following:

He restates God’s words to him: “Go back to your country and relatives, and I will make you prosper.”
He admits that he doesn’t deserve God’s kindness and faithfulness.
He pleads for safety.
He reminds God of His promise to bless and multiply him and his descendants.

Reflect

How would you feel if you were about to meet the person you had tricked out of his/her most prized possession? Jacob must have been trembling in his sandals! But instead of fleeing, (as he fled from Laban), Jacob demonstrates that his faith is growing.

Instead of drowning his worries in a bowl of ice cream, or frantically running around, he makes practical plans and then releases his anxieties to God in prayer.

Now that would be a good thing to remember the next time I reach for that bowl of chocolate ice cream!

This section ends with Jacob spending the night in the camp. Next week, I’ll wrestle with—excuse the pun—the short, but intriguing passage of Jacob wrestling with God (vs. 22-32).

I hope you are enjoying spring. Despite catching a heavy cold, I am loving the warmer weather. Have a super week!

Jacob Flees From Laban, Genesis 31:1-55

Posted on April 29, 2016 by KD Manes under Bible Study

Jacob had heard that Laban’s sons were saying, ‘Jacob has taken everything our father owned and has gained all this wealth from what belonged to our father.’” –Genesis 31:1

(Credit: Shasta Townsend)

After Jacob grows exceedingly rich, some of Laban’s sons become jealous and accuse him of stealing their inheritance. But despite Laban’s harsh work environment, God has proven Himself faithful to Jacob (vs. 4-13).

You may read Genesis 31:1-55 here: Bible Gateway.

Twenty years slipped by since Jacob’s last recorded revelation from God. Jacob was still in the promised land at the time (28:10-22). Finally, God tells Jacob to go back to the land of his fathers (vs. 3). I wonder if God’s directive felt like a breath of fresh air to Jacob. Or, did the potential dangers gnaw at him with the high probabilities: Laban’s pursuit from behind and Esau’s revenge up ahead?

Whatever thoughts and anxieties swam through Jacob’s mind, he states the facts to his wives, Rachel and Leah. God is mentioned by name seven times during their discourse. Even the tension between the sisters can’t squelch their unanimous conclusion. Possibly for the first time, the awkward threesome agree on something: Laban, (their dad), doesn’t hesitate to walk over his own flesh and blood if it benefits him financially. (Okay, that’s my interpretation.)

The NIV Life Application Study Bible notes: “According to custom, they [Rachel and Leah] were supposed to receive the benefits of the dowry Jacob paid for them, which was 14 years of hard work. When Laban did not give them what was rightfully theirs, they knew they would never inherit anything from their father.”

Small wonder, Rachel and Leah support Jacob’s plan. Together they would take Jacob’s acquired wealth and vamoose.

So Jacob saddles up his camels with family and belongings in tow for the 300 mile trek from Haran to mountainous Gilead. But first, Jacob and Rachel would combine for a double whammy on Laban: 1) Rachel steals Laban’s small household idols while he shears sheep; 2) Jacob goes against God’s way by not informing Laban of their departure, (despite following God’s will to go home).

Small wonder, Laban chases after Jacob when he learns they skedaddled. Fortunately for Jacob, God reveals Himself to Laban in a dream. After traveling seven days, (Jacob had a three-day head start), Laban confronts Jacob in Gilead: “Why did you run off and secretly deceive me? . . . . Why did you steal my gods?”

Jacob confesses his fear of Laban taking his daughters by force as the motivating factor. Clueless that Rachel stole her father’s idols, Jacob tells him to search their belongings. “If you find anyone who has your gods, he shall not live.”

Neither Laban nor Jacob realize Rachel is the culprit as she hides the idols inside her saddle. When Laban searches Jacob’s tents, Rachel—matching her father’s wit—gives a female excuse for not getting off her camel. (I don’t know why he swallowed the fly, I mean bait, but fortunately he does!)

With Laban’s unsuccessful search, Jacob releases twenty years of pent-up frustration. But even in his rebuke, Jacob’s faith is evident (vs. 36-42).

This section ends with Jacob setting up a stone as a pillar. The two men make an agreement that neither party would harm the other, nor Jacob mistreat Laban’s daughters. Although both Jacob and Laban use God as their witness to make the agreement binding, Laban swears by the pagan god his father worshiped (31:53). This is the last mention of Laban in the Bible (vs. 55).

Reflect

Why did Rachel steal her father’s idols? Was she reluctant to let go of her father’s religion, thinking it would bring her luck? Did she do it out of revenge? Or was it to secure her family’s inheritance? Whatever her reasons, God makes His position clear on idol worship: Exodus 20:30; Deuteronomy 5:7; 32:16.

Jacob was so sure no one had stolen Laban’s idols that he vowed to kill the crook. How horrible it would have been for everyone, especially Jacob, if Laban found out the truth. That’s a good lesson to take to the bank: It’s safer to avoid making rash statements, (even when we’re sure of something!)

Jacob’s work ethic under Laban was commendable. Although Jacob followed God’s will to go home, his way of fleeing without first telling Laban, however, showed his faith still had room to grow.

Lastly, Laban mastered using people. He controlled two generations of marriages in Abraham’s family (Rebekah, Rachel, Leah). But despite his efforts, God’s plan still carried on. And in the end, Laban was the one used.

Jacob’s Flocks Increase, Genesis 30:25-43

Posted on April 15, 2016 by KD Manes under Bible Study

After Rachel gave birth to Joseph, Jacob said to Laban, ‘Send me on my way so I can go back to my own homeland. Give me my wives and children, for whom I have served you, and I will be on my way. You know how much work I have done for you.” –Genesis 30:25-26

Jacob probably never dreamt that he would spend 20 years of hard labor under his uncle Laban in Paddan-aram (31:38). His first seven years would seem a breeze, at least in comparison to receiving his dream wife, Rachel. But Laban outwitted his nephew.

Jacob’s deception with Esau and his father came back to haunt him. Instead of receiving Rachel as his bride, Laban gave him Leah.

And the Trickster got tricked.

But even though Laban conned Jacob into another seven years of toil in exchange for Rachel, Jacob kept his end of the bargain. However, another six years would slip through the hourglass before Jacob finally breaks free from Laban. Meanwhile, eleven sons and one daughter are born.

You may read Genesis 30:25-43: Bible Gateway.

Jacob couldn’t just pack his bags and leave at leisure. Shared ownership complicated the authority structure in this Eastern family. To leave without receiving his uncle/father-in-law’s permission could lead to war within the family clan.

Laban’s desire for Jacob to stay isn’t because he loves him, but rather because his prosperity is due to Jacob’s presence. When Laban claims that his idols have enlightened him to this fact, Jacob candidly tells him that God’s blessing is due to His faithfulness and Jacob’s hard work.

Jacob’s answer to Laban’s increased wage offer indicates that he has prepared for this moment (vs. 31-33).

Don’t give me anything. But if you will do this one thing for me, I will go on tending your flocks and watching over them: Let me go through your flocks today and remove from them every speckled or spotted sheep, every dark-colored lamb and every spotted or speckled goat. They will be my wages,” (vs. 31-32).

Laban agrees to this arrangement.

Jacob’s proposal favors Laban. Layman’s Bible Commentary notes: “Goats in the Middle East are generally black or dark brown (Song of Solomon 4:1), and the sheep are always nearly white (Ps. 147:16; Song of Solomon 4:2; 6:6; Daniel 7:9).”

Laban, however, still attempts to cheat Jacob (vs. 35-36). He places the speckled animals under the care of his sons. Then he separates them from Jacob with a good three-day journey distance.

Meanwhile, Jacob continues caring for the rest of Laban’s flocks and counters with a God inspired plan involving tree branches (31:10). How did these visuals help increase the streaked characteristics in the young? Although some herdsmen believed that vivid impressions at mating time influenced their offspring, God’s promise of provision and selective breeding were most likely the contributing factors to Jacob’s success.

This chapter ends with the report that Jacob “grew exceedingly prosperous” with flocks, servants, camels and donkeys. (Picture source: bible.com)

REFLECT

Selfishness is concern for self at the expense of others.

While most of us battle selfishness at times, some—like Laban—embrace it with outstretched arms. In a culture steeped in “me-ism,” how do we free ourselves from its grasp?

One effective way to battle selfishness is to read and meditate on Scripture such as the following: Proverbs 18:1; Galatians 5:19-21; Philippians 2:3; James 3:16.

Another tool to oust selfishness is to exercise kindness. “[T]here’s a great deal of evidence showing the more someone receives or witnesses kindness, the more they will be kind themselves, which leads to upward spirals of love and generosity in a relationship,” says Emily Esfhani Smith.

This past week I was treated to a random act of kindness. After unplugging our bathroom faucet and checking a couple of other dripping faucets, our plumber says, “I won’t charge you. It was a simple procedure.”

I’m sure my jaw dropped. There had always been a service fee just to have him drive to our home. I couldn’t help but think: Who does that? Obviously my plumber does! Needless to say, he made my day as I thanked him (and God) for his gift of generosity during a bill filled month.

Not only is it refreshing to observe and/or receive an act of kindness, but it’s also rewarding to be on the giving side. Jesus Himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” (Acts 20:35).

There are many ways to give of one’s time, talent, spiritual gifts and money. Let’s ask God: who, what and where He desires for us to give. Then let’s go ahead and make someone’s day by stepping out in obedience.

Have a great week! 🙂