In one of the most complicated family stories in the entire book of Genesis, Jacob's father-in-law tricks him into marrying both of his daughters in exchange for 14 years of labor instead of 7. Then, in a twist of dark irony, Jacob's least favorite wife Leah bears him sons while his favorite wife Rachel is barren. Join the Pastors as they explore Leah's story of faith and struggle and what we might have to learn from it.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

Jacob arrives safely at his Uncle Laban's house so it would be natural to assume that the worst is behind him. Yet, to those who know what to look for, today's text is a foreboding tale of the story to come.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

When Jacob runs to save his life from his brother Esau, he hits rock bottom, sleeping under the stars with his head literally on a rock. What follows is a remarkable story of God's faithfulness to his promise, a dream inspired by God himself, and a conversion experience that leaves something to be desired. Join the Pastors as they explore "Jacob's ladder" and what we might learn from it.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

When Esau discovers his brother's successful scheme to steal his blessing, he is deeply wounded and begs his father for a blessing of his own. What follows will be a story of deep grief, anger, and a family that it ripped to pieces. This is the kind of messy human story that we all know too well. Join the Pastors as they reflect on what we can learn from Jacob and Esau but also how their story connects to the hope and promise of Jesus Christ who took on himself the messiness of human flesh in the manger.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

First Jacob steals his older brother Esau' birthright but now, through an outright plan of deception, he steals his blessing. This conflict between brothers receives will set off an increasing number of messy family relationships far into the future. Interestingly, even as things get messier, God communicates no judgement or expectation either way. Join the Pastors as they explore this difficult Old Testament text and ask how we should understand its downright messy choices.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

Today we discover how Jacob shrewdly and tricks his brother Esau into giving up his birthright. This sets off a whole chain reaction that will extend throughout the remainder of the book of Genesis. Join Pastors Clint and Michael as they explore what this means for Isaac and the promise that God made to Abraham.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

For all of the time establishing the importance of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah, the Old Testament spends precious little time telling us about Isaac's life. In fact, within a few short verses we are already introduced to his two sons Esau and Jacob whose conflict will become a significant theme for several chapters. Join the Pastors as the explore what we can learn from this radical change of pace from our study thus far.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

Today marks a turning point in our study of Genesis. Abraham and his son Ishmael both die after living long lives and leaving behind them a lasting legacy. We see that God is faithful to continue the covenantal promise and we set the stage for Isaac and his two sons who are about to come.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

The story of God's covenant continues when Isaac begins to search for his future wife. Pastor Clint explores how God may not be mentioned in the text but yet God is clearly at work in fulfilling his original promise to Abraham.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.

Sarah dies in the land of the Hittites and we watch as Abraham honors his wife's life by purchasing a choice burial location. In what might otherwise seem like very simple details of this couple's life, we discover how Abraham is both a man of character and how God provides even when he is an alien in a foreign land.

Be sure to share this with anyone who you think might be interested in going along on this journey together through Genesis together.

Pastor Talk Quick Links:

Pastor Talk is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Spirit Lake, IA.