Genesis 31:14-16 (ESV)

Originally published 12/14/2014

God uses even the bad things that people do to further his work. God had told Jacob that he wanted him to return, to go back to his home, but it would mean asking his wives to leave the only family and place they ever lived. When Jacob told them what God wanted him to do: "Then Rachel and Leah answered and said to him, 'Is there any portion or inheritance left to us in our father's house? Are we not regarded by him as foreigners? For he has sold us, and he has indeed devoured our money. All the wealth that God has taken away from our father belongs to us and to our children. Now then, whatever God has said to you, do'" Genesis 31:14-16 (ESV). When God told Jacob to go back home, he may have thought, “My wives will not want to leave family,” but God knew that they were ready. Laban's treatment of his daughters prepared them to be ready to obey God. Lord, when you tell me to do something that looks impossible, remind me that you alone know the circumstances are right to do this.

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