Hello dear,
Isn’t it interesting to note that despite all Jacob experienced at Laban‘s hands, he never once acted harshly towards his wives. In fact, he is not recorded as being abusive towards Leah, despite her not being the wife of his heart. In today’s Holy Nougat, we see yet another facet of Jacob’s relationship with his wives –
“So Jacob sent and called for Rachel and Leah to come to the field, to his flock. He said to them, “I can see by your father’s face that his expression isn’t the same as it was just a day or two ago. But the God of my father has been with me.” Genesis 31:4-5 TLV
Even when he realized that he had ‘overstayed’ his welcome at Laban’s; he opted for a discussion with them before acting on God’s directive. Although I’ve never been blessed to partake of that joyous institution, I confirm that this is as it should be – that major decisions made within a marriage unit are joint.
Many might argue (or not) that this was not a matter for discussion with his family; since Jacob was following a directive from God. And everyone knows God is to be obeyed at all times – but Jacob knew that he needed buy in from his family, especially if his plan was to work. Laban was their still their father. And Jacob intended to leave Laban’s empire to establish his own.
I digress for a quick moment as I recall a friend’s correction of the pundits who kept ‘prophesying’ that her husband was called to full-time ministry. Her calm response each time was a simple, ‘when God reveals that to me [not you all] … I’ll accept it as a call. Until then, it’s just words of encouragement.’ Another friend said, ‘Rev pray for us; because I’m not sure what God’s plans are for our future.’ It’s the same consideration.
Reverting to the text we note that Jacob opts to meet with his wives in the fields; ie his (Jacob’s) domain. Not under Laban’s roof, not within earshot of the concubines, lest their discussion was overheard and reported to his oppressor. My dears, Jesus commends us to wisdom in Matthew 10; when we have to make important decisions; we ought also proceed with wisdom. Whether married or not, we can still learn from Jacob.
And lastly, were you a bit uncomfortable with Jacob speaking of God as the God of my father? (Did you even notice it?) In light of all he’d been through with God, we might have expected him to refer to God more personally; especially in light of the directive which prompted the special family meeting. But Jacob is nothing, if he’s not a strategist. His words would NOT have been accidental. Nope. Not our Jacob. But he was speaking to his wives about THEIR father, who had bartered them and attempted to enslave-indenture him indefinitely. And he was preparing to return to HIS father’s home. They knew that it was his father’s God Who brought him into their lives. And that that was not the god of their father. Jacob knew that and probably made that distinction for their benefit. All hope isn’t lost for him just yet; Jacob still had a relationship going with God.
I pray this slice from Jacob’s life proved inspiring, especially for the married amongst us.
God bless you and do have a marvelous week!
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
