James Reed's FORGE

There’s a lot going on in this chapter. It kind of serves as a conclusion of sorts to the end of one generation and the beginning of another. One chapter (in the life of Israel) concludes, and another is about to begin. My hope and prayer is that this study is useful to you. Consider how the Bible unites to tell one single story. May your faith be strengthened as you see the consistency of Scripture and the promises of God fulfilled time after time. May you know and see the Savior even from the very beginning of this great Book of books. 

Dinah says nothing in this chapter, yet she is at the very center of the unfolding narrative. What will happen next? How can we find God's mercy on display even in such a tragic story?

Think of it dear Christian— to the extent that we are indeed ruled by God is the extent that He is truly our God. To the extent that we attempt to take things into our own hands, is the extent that we are refusing to submit to His rulership.

As Christians we know that God will change our character. While you and I have yet to see Him face to face as these great men and women of old had the privilege to do, we have the Holy Spirit living within. He has brought us to life and sealed us forever. Dear Christian, I do not know the Esau in your life. I do not know with what things you are wrestling. I do not know how your are specifically contending with God nor do I know how you are trying to manipulate the situation as you trust in the things of the flesh. But I do know this: if you are His you will surrender and be blessed in your brokenness which He out of love commanded at His own hand for your good and His glory.

Jacob finally heads home.

God's plan is not helped nor is it hindered by the schemes of men. Just as God took care of Jacob, He continues to take care of His people today.

I normally do some editing so you hear a better produced episode. Today, I was tongue-tied and even used the wrong microphone at one point. Sorry about that... hopefully this still encourages you.

Jacob finds a wife... or two. This chapter has a lot of action packed into a small space. Here we have the first four sons of Jacob recorded as the nation of Israel begins to take form. We will also see the deceiver gets deceived. Yet through it all, God remains faithful to His people. It's great to know that even when we are not faithful to Him, He remains faithful to us. And... we can learn from the life of Leah too. May we as Christians find our peace, comfort, joy, fulfillment, and indeed our very life in Christ alone.

Do you remember the Tower of Babel? Have you ever heard about Jacob's ladder or a stairway to heaven? Have you ever tried to make a deal with God? The Psalmist writes in Psalm 51:17, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart—These O God, You will not despise.” What does all this have to do with Genesis 28? Listen to this episode to find out. 

God's choice is not determined by the ways of men. God is working all things for the praise of His glory! Once God has called and appointed you, no manipulation on the part of mere humans will ever enhance or change that. Christianity is something which is revealed by the Holy Spirit, so let us walk by faith-- not by sight.