Today’s scripture: Genesis 29:18-30 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (E’sha Cooper):
How did you feel after reading today’s story? I was like, ”Wow, waiting 14 years for one prayer to be answered! Lord, strengthen my faith.”
Jacob demonstrated a tremendous amount of faith and patience in receiving Rachel for his wife. There were sacrifices, setbacks, and situations that went along with the manifestation of Jacob’s blessing.
We know that we won’t receive everything we ask for instantaneously. As I pondered today’s reading, God gave me a formula to share with you. I think Jacob and Laban can parallel how we “do business” with God.
What are you asking the Lord for? If it’s multiple things, pick just one and apply this “formula”:
- Ask for what you want. (v. 18)
- Ask God what might need to be sacrificed in order to see your prayer answered. (v. 18)
- Follow through until you have fulfilled your part. (v. 20)
- Expect a harvest and embrace your blessing. (v. 21, 23)
- If it doesn’t unfold as you planned, ask God for understanding. (v. 25)
- Accept God’s answer and direction and allow that new insight to catapult you to the end. (v. 28,30).
- Be blessed with more than what you asked God for. (v. 28, 30 and Genesis 30:26, 43).
Thought for the day: If I ask God for something, do I know how to wait for it?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.