Genesis 30:40 (ESV)

Originally published 12/06/2014

Laban and Jacob made a deal that all the white sheep and goats would belong to Laban and the black and spotted sheep and goats would belong to Jacob. Laban secretly removed the black and spotted sheep and goats three days away from the white flocks so there would be no spotted ones born. Jacob was going to trick Laban by putting sticks in the water to make the white sheep have spotted lambs, but we know that would not work. Both were trying to cheat each other, but God was keeping his promise to Jacob. "Thus, the man (Jacob) increased greatly and had large flocks, female servants and male servants, and camels and donkeys" Genesis 30:43 (ESV). When we commit to live in submission, service and obedience to God, we sometimes think that our success is the result of good planning, hard work, and skill, when, in reality it is God who makes our planning work and our work productive. Lord, remind me that every good and prefect thing comes from you, not from me. Help me to do the best that I can, but always give credit to you for the results.

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