SUMMARY: Jacob deceived
OVERVIEW: Jacob gets a taste of his own medicine as his Uncle Laban deceives him. After working seven years to receive Rachel as his wife, Laban gave Jacob her sister, Leah, instead.
BIG IDEA: Treat others honestly and respectfully, regardless of how they’ve treated you.
KEY VERSE: Genesis 29:25 (Jacob speaking to Laban)
But when Jacob woke up in the morning—it was Leah! “What have you done to me?” Jacob raged at Laban. “I worked seven years for Rachel! Why have you tricked me?”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
You live in a world where deceit is common. Be wise. You’ll have to develop thick skin and a shrewd mind to show sound judgment. But don’t let your heart grow hard. Pray for those who seek to take advantage of you. Love them and allow me to respond to their deeds. Deception may surround you, but you don’t have to adopt it as your lifestyle. You get to choose how you interact with people, how you address them, and how you think about them. Your default does not have to be anger or revenge. Show kindness and love, and trust me.
Seek, speak, and pursue truth. I am the truth. Seek and follow me and live in a way that shows others you belong to me. Don’t fall for another’s snare. Watch how and where you step. Following my steps is the best way to live. Even when you stumble, I will help you take your next step.
NEXT STEP
Choose to love and serve someone who has hurt you in the past. Pray for the person and then reach out to encourage him or her. If you regularly see the person, go out of your way to ask how they’re doing and how you can pray for them. If you don’t see them, send a text or mail a card.
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BONUS Music Video