SCRIPTURE UNION DAILY GUIDE FOR JULY 4, 2022 (JACOB PREPARE TO RETURN HOME)
TOPIC : JACOB PREPARE TO RETURN HOME
Opening Prayer: Help me to understand the exceeding greatness of your power as I read through this passage, dear Lord.
Scripture: Genesis 32:3‐21
Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• What truth is God revealing to me in this passage?
Jacob’s deceit of his father (20 years previously), to snatch his brother’s blessings estranged him from Esau and he fled for his life. Now on his way back to the Promised Land, he was apprehensive of how Esau would receive him. Sin against our loved ones spoils our relationship with them and instils fear in our hearts.
It is always better to put things right with anyone we offend at the earliest opportunity. Jacob is still scheming, still devising his own ways, seeking desperately to evade the consequences of his wrong doings. Notice how he addressed Esau viz‐a‐viz himself (vs.4,5) hoping this would pacify his brother. To impress and appease him further, Jacob sent him a present that consisted of many animals sent in five herds at different intervals for greater effect (vs.14‐15).
Clever Jacob! Happily, in his desperation, he turned to God in prayer. He openly confessed his fear of his brother (vs.9‐12). It is a sample prayer for us in times of difficulties and fear. He later learned that God would have delivered him even without his gifts. Do you give out or receive bribes (so‐called gifts) to give or gain favour? The Bible condemns bribery (Exodus 23:8). See why (Deuteronomy 16:19), Ecclesiastes 7:7).
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Lord, help me to truly cast all my cares and concerns on you.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with
Nahum 1:7; 2 Kings 5, 6; Revelation 3
