God keeps his promises!
Then Jacob prayed, “O God of my father Abraham, God of my father Isaac, Lord, you who said to me, ‘I will surely make you prosper and will make your descendants like the sand of the sea, which cannot be counted: (verses 9,12)
Read Genesis 32:3-21
Jacob has heard that his brother Esau was coming with 400 men to ‘visit’ him. Jacob had a guilty conscience because he had stolen Esau’s birthright. With the birthright came the blessing of God. Jacob knew it and so did Esau. As the years went on Jacob’s wealth and prosperity grew. The blessing was evident and Esau was on his way. Was he ready to get even? Jacob’s response was to pray. Yes, that’s right, his first response was to talk to God and remind him of his promise, “Lord, you said to me… ” That is a good reminder to you and me. When you are going through difficult times and you feel that the odds are stacked against you, do what Jacob did, simply talk to God. Jesus promised that he would be with you, even until the end of the age. Remember, God keeps his promises!
When have you wanted revenge on someone?
Thank you, Lord Jesus, that you are with me in the good times and in the hard times. Remind me that you are always there and I can trust in your promises. Amen.
by Dean Mills, in ‘Time Out with the Shepherd’ (ACR, Australian Church Resources, 2017)
