Genesis 31 relates the blessings and problems that come with wealth and also shows the strong ties that our pet idols can have on us.

Although Jacob has had his wages changed “ten times” by his uncle Laban, he has still prospered to the extent that Laban’s sons start to envy his success and make their thoughts known to him.  Jacob begins to feel threatened and notices that Laban is also showing signs of the same displeasure.

Look at verses 1-3: Now Jacob heard the words of Laban’s sons, saying, ‘Jacob has taken away all that was our father’s, and from what was our father’s he has acquired all this wealth.’ And Jacob saw the countenance of Laban, and indeed it was not favorable toward him as before. Then the Lord said to Jacob, “Return to the land of your fathers and to your family, and I will be with you.”

Jacob consults with his wives, Leah and Rachel and the decision is made to do what God has said. Knowing that Laban is involved in shearing his sheep, he sets off toward his homeland unaware that Rachel has secretly taken her father’s household idols!

Laban finds out about the “escape” three days later and sets out in pursuit but is warned by God in a dream: “Be careful that you speak to Jacob neither good nor bad.” How faithful God is to His promises!!

This story reminds me of my favourite promise in all the Bible: “And you shall seek me and you shall find me when you search of me with all your heart!” (Jeremiah 29:13) It is my favourite because I claimed it and acted on it when I was deep in sin, and God guided me away from my cherished “idols” and into a wonderful and meaningful relationship with Him, which continues 47 years later! Leave behind this world’s idols as you make your way to the homeland friends. They become a weight that wears away spiritual vigour!

Have a great day!