Genesis 28:1-9: Running Away, Finding God’s Blessing

This passage in Genesis tells us about a turning point in Jacob’s life. It’s a story of family drama, running away, and a surprising encounter with God.

What’s Happening?

• Family Feud: Remember, Jacob had tricked his brother Esau out of their father’s blessing. Esau was furious and wanted to kill him! So, their mother Rebekah came up with a plan: Jacob needed to run away to her brother Laban’s place until Esau calmed down.
• Isaac’s Blessing: Even though Jacob had deceived him, Isaac still gave him a special blessing before he left. He told Jacob to find a wife from among his relatives, not from the local people. He also repeated the promise God made to Abraham, that his descendants would be numerous and inherit the land.
• Esau’s Attempt: Esau realised his father wasn’t happy with his Canaanite wives. So, he tried to please Isaac by marrying a relative, Mahalath. But it was too late, the damage was done.

What Does This Mean for Us?

• Consequences of Our Actions: Jacob’s deception had serious consequences. He had to leave his home and family. Sometimes, our bad choices can lead to difficult situations.
• God’s Faithfulness: Even when we mess up, God is still faithful. He continued to bless Jacob despite his flaws. God’s promises to Abraham and Isaac were still in effect.
• Importance of Family: This story highlights the importance of family and seeking their blessing. Isaac wanted Jacob to marry someone who shared their faith.
• God’s Presence Everywhere: Jacob was running away, feeling alone and afraid. But even in a strange place, God was with him.

Questions for Reflection

1. Have you ever made a bad choice that led to difficult consequences? What did you learn from it?
2. How does this story show us that God is faithful even when we aren’t?
3. Why do you think Isaac wanted Jacob to marry someone from his own family?
4. How can we seek our parents’ or guardians’ blessing in our lives?
5. Have you ever felt alone or afraid in a new situation? How can we remember that God is with us even then?

Challenge

Think about a time when you felt God’s presence even when things were tough. Share that experience with a friend or family member.

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The Patriarch’s Blessing (v. 1-4)

Isaac, recognising the divine plan, summons Jacob and blesses him. This blessing, echoing the covenant promises to Abraham, underscores God’s faithfulness across generations. As Matthew Henry notes, “Those are blessed indeed whom God Almighty blesses; for he commands and effects the blessing.” Spurgeon adds a poignant layer, highlighting that “Isaac poured out his soul upon Jacob in a fervent prayer that the choicest blessings of heaven might rest upon his son.”

The Flight from Esau’s Wrath (v. 5)

Jacob, now bearing the weight of the blessing and Esau’s resentment, departs for Haran. His journey, though prompted by fear, is divinely orchestrated. Spurgeon observes, “Jacob was sent away that he might be preserved, and that his seed might be increased. The Lord often sends his servants into exile that they may be blessed.”

Esau’s Misguided Attempt at Reconciliation (v. 6-9)

Esau, witnessing Jacob’s departure and Isaac’s blessing, belatedly tries to please his father by marrying within the family. His actions, while outwardly obedient, lack genuine repentance. Matthew Henry states, “To show the folly of an after-wit. Esau did well, but he did it when it was too late.” Spurgeon adds, “Esau hoped to win the blessing by imitation, but it was too late; the birthright was gone, and gone forever.”

Overall Themes

This passage, while seemingly narrating a family conflict, speaks volumes about God’s sovereignty, the importance of obedience, and the danger of delayed repentance. As Matthew Henry summarises, “We have here an account of two brothers taking very different courses, and likely to have very different issues.”

Spurgeon’s reflection ties the events to a broader spiritual truth: “Jacob’s going forth was the type of the going forth of the church into the wilderness. She also has been sent into exile that she may be preserved, and that her seed may be multiplied.”

This narrative, rich in both historical detail and spiritual significance, continues to inspire and challenge believers today. It reminds us that God’s plans, though sometimes mysterious, are always for our ultimate good.