Today I read Genesis 27 and 28, which talks about Jacob stealing the blessing, leaving to find a wife, and vowing faithfulness to God. Jacob did follow Rebekah’s directions and take the foretold blessing. Jacob obeyed both his parents in leaving to go look for a spouse. Jacob chose to build a pillar to God. Today I considered how the obedient Jacob was blessed instead and warned to choose a different spouse but chose to vow to follow God.
Jacob Blessed Instead
When we receive a task we also need the resources to accomplish that task. Esau sold Jacob his birthright including the responsibility to be over the family, but Esau was angry when Jacob stole his blessing (Genesis 27:36). Esau even plotted to kill Jacob (Genesis 27:41). Jacob followed his mother’s instructions in taking Esau’s blessing (Genesis 27:8). Jacob’s mother was following God’s instructions in having Jacob inherit (Genesis 25:23). Ultimately it was God’s will that the one to inherit appreciated the birthright and had the necessary blessing. We need to consider who would be responsible to God and need the resources to accomplish God’s tasks instead of choosing the favorite or oldest.
Choosing a Spouse
Whether your spouse has a heart for God really does matter. Rebekah’s concern about Jacob’s choice of spouse was sincere (Genesis 27:46). Esau’s wives were already an issue to Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 26:34-35). Jacob obtaining a different spouse from those in the land was a true desire, and Jacob was willing to obey. Everyone needs to choose their spouse wisely, someone who also loves God.
Jacob Vows to Follow God
Thankfully God does talk to us in dreams and visions. Jacob was told by God that he would receive the blessings of Abraham. Jacob built a pillar and poured oil on the pillar to worship God. Jacob vowed faithfulness to God and a tenth of his increase if God blessed him and brought him back home in peace. We should also remember to thank God for the dreams, visions, and blessings He gives us, remembering the blessings of Abraham that bless all the families on the earth (Genesis 28:14).
Questions and Thoughts for Today
How have you seen the blessings of Abraham apply in your life or the life of someone you know?