H – Highlight
Genesis 31:29 – It is in my power to do you harm. But the God of your father spoke to me last night, saying, “Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad.”
E – Explain
When Jacob fled from Laban, this could have led to a major conflict. In fact, it could have led to a violent battle that would threaten Jacob’s family and thus threatening the promise. But, even as Laban pursued Jacob, the Lord spoke to Laban, an unbeliever, and warned him to leave Jacob alone.
A – Apply
This text shows us that God works out situations from more than one side. Jacob thought that he was cleverly protecting himself and his family. But the Lord was at work to keep Laban from being able to do Jacob and his family harm.
So often, I find that I believe that I have to accomplish things by my own power. So often, I forget what God is doing in the hearts of others. I must not let myself forget that God does work even in the hearts of the lost, work that I cannot see until it is accomplished.
R – Respond
Lord, I praise you for your great power to change the hearts of men. I thank you that you are always at work accomplishing your will even when I cannot see what you are doing. I pray that you will grant me faith to remember that you are always at work. I pray that you will help me remember that you work in the hearts of others. I pray that you will give me courage knowing that you will never fail.
Pastor Travis Peterson 