fredlott63

Genesis 31 chapter

Forward

In this chapter, Jacob and Laban part ways.

Verse 1 - 10

Laban’s sons noticed Jacob’s flock becoming larger and Laban’s getting smaller..They tell Laban and Laban thinks this is because of Jacob but God blessed Jacob. When Laban starts looking at Jacob differently, Jacob plans to go back home.

Verse 11 - 13

This is telling us something. Jacob did God’s will, even though Laban cheated him. In time, he realizes God was with him the whole time. Christians should lead humble lives until God lifts us up.

Verse 14 - 16

Rachel and Leah have received nothing from their father. They have been treated like whores. Their brothers don’t add any wealth, but accuse Jacob, who is producing the wealth, of stealing. They are ready to leave.

Verse 17 - 23

Jacob leaves with his family and animals. Rachel takes one of her father’s small statues that he worships. Laban had gone to shear his sheep. Laban finds out three days later. The fact that Laban pursues Jacob shows he had no intention of honoring his agreement.

Verse 24

God warns Laban not to even speak to Jacob. God was watching the whole time. He was looking out for Jacob. Jacob knew God is in control and things would work in his favor in the end. We should do God’s will and stop killing our own children and being so myopic.

Verse 25 - 30

Laban was coming to get his stuff back. After he and God talk, he says he just wanted to throw a party and say goodbye to his daughters and grandchildren. Then he accuses Jacob of stealing his gods.

Verse 31 and 32

Jacob knew what was on Laban’s mind and from marrying Laban’s daughters that Laban was manipulative. Jacob has no knowledge of Rachel’s taking stuff from her father. He gives Laban permission to search all until his stuff is found and whoever has taken Laban’s stuff will die.

Verse 33 - 35

Laban does a thorough search of everybodies tent but Rachel’s. Rachel took the idol. She puts the idol under her and tells her father she is on her period. Laban leaves. But now it appears he made a false accusation.

Verse 36 - 42

Jacob has been accused of stealing but where was the proof? Jacob then tells of the suffering and injustices he endured for twenty years. He knows that if God wasn’t on his side, he would be sent away with nothing.

Verse 43 - 55

Laban admits he had no intention of keeping the agreement. He considered everything his. God is in control. Laban and Jacob make peace and part ways. Laban says goodbye to his daughters and grandchildren.