Arise and Abide

Reading from Genesis 28:10-22 (NLT) ~ Jacob’s Dream at Bethel ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. God introducing Himself to Jacob. Jacob’s response with conditions. The good promises of God for Abraham’s children. The fear felt as you begin to walk with Jesus and trust God’s Word. John 1:51, Jesus is the stairway. The importance of discipleship. Ephesians 1:15 We have been adopted, making us co-heirs, God’s promises are for us too.

Reading from Genesis 27:41-28:9  (NLT) ~Jacob Flees to Paddan-Aram, ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Seeing the fallout of Jacob stealing Esau’s blessing. Rebecca’s role in the situation and seeing the potential loss. Jacob being blessed again before being sent away. Esau seeking approval.

Reading Psalms 34:1-22 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Praise the LORD at all times & praying without ceasing. Being freed from the fears, worries, and anxieties is life. Taste and see that the LORD is Good, Experiencing God involves all our senses. The frustrations of the righteous. Reminding ourselves and God reminding us, that God hears, God is close.

Reading from Genesis 27:1-40 (NLT) ~Jacob Steals Esau’s Blessing~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The story showing how human nature is to take things into our own hands. Everyone trying to manipulate things to go the way they want. When we manipulate things there are unforeseen consequences. God’s plan being accomplished even though we make a mess of things in our attempts to have things go according to our own plans. Surrendering to God’s plan keeps us in His will.

Reading from Genesis 26:1-35 (NLT) ~Isaac Deceives Abimelech, Conflict over Water Rights, Isaac’s Covenant with Abimelech~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. God and Isaac’s relationship becomes more personal. Reminder that all the blessings are coming not because of Isaac’s work or good deeds but because of the goodness of God. Expect the same struggles your parents faced. Repeating the same mistakes. Children learning from our parents. Being surrendered instead of growing hostile.

Reading from Genesis 25:19-34 (NLT) ~The Birth of Esau and Jacob, Esau Sells His Birthright ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion.  Recap of Gen. 25:1-18. The continued story of God’s plan and Isaac building his own relationship and learning to trust. Isaac being an intermediary. Jacob wanting to have the birthright that was almost his in the beginning. The repeated theme of sibling rivalry, Isaac & Ishmael, Jacob and Esau. God uses flawed people to accomplish His purposes.

Reading from Genesis 24:32-67 (NLT) ~A Wife for Isaac (Cont.) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion.  Abraham’s servant testifying to Rebekah’s family all that God had done. Rebekah being well matched would have been important to her family. Laban’s eagerness to show hospitality, the servant eager to get back to Abraham. The connection between Isaac and Rebekah.

Reading from Genesis 24:1-32 (NLT) ~A Wife for Isaac~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Abraham sends his servant on a 450 mile mission to bring a wife back for his son. The servant starting the mission with little to no faith. Praying to Abraham’s God (not his own), God breaks in, and then the servant praises the God of his master Abraham, embracing the breakthrough. God comes to life in a personal way for Abraham’s servant.

Reading from Genesis 23:1-20 (NLT) ~the Burial of Sarah~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. A sad chapter as he loses his loved one. Abraham wanting to have a place to burry his wife. Abraham didn’t want to take Sarah back to where they were from because this was the future home. The Significance of Abraham owning his first piece of land. A lot of moving and wandering but now something permanent. The negotiation and maintaining good relationship with the surrounding people.

Reading Psalms 33 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Praising the LORD in the morning is a great way to start the day, reaffirming His truth over your life. Reminding ourselves of His word when the obstacles of the day come. Recognizing God is our security and not our own strength. God Brings the favor and the victory. God’s perspective is greater than of humans. God’s plan prevails.