Genesis 29:1-8 – God’s Guiding Hand
Jacob has been sent out by his parents to find a Godly wife from his mother’s relatives. He is also fleeing from his brother Esau who wants to murder him. As he has travelled to his uncle’s house, the Lord has revealed Himself to Jacob and has given him the covenant promises of a Messiah, a land, a people, and a special relationship with God Himself. Encouraged by the assurance of God’s presence and protection, Jacob travels on until he comes to his destination. God brings Jacob to the very field where his uncle’s flocks are going to be watered and where he will meet his future wife. God’s hand is controlling, causing, and guiding all things, big and little, happy and unhappy.
The shepherds in this field look out for one another, including Rachel, the shepherdess, and they wait until they are all gathered together to roll the stone off the well and water the sheep. While they are waiting, Jacob takes the opportunity to find out who they are. He speaks respectfully to them and discovers that his mother’s family is alive and well, and his cousin is on her way to the well right then. Because he has spoken politely to them, the shepherds don’t tell Jacob to mind his own business when he tells them how to do their job. Instead, they patiently explain that they are waiting for all the sheep to be gathered before they begin watering them.
Questions
- Why has Jacob had to leave home?
- What has God promised Jacob?
- Who does Jacob see gathered together and what does he ask them?
- What relative is soon going to arrive at the well?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks that God is in control of all things, both big and little.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters