Jacob

January 31

Genesis 29:21-28

A deal is a deal

After seven years of working for Rachel’s father, Jacob said to Laban, “My time is done. I would like to marry your daughter now.”

So Laban prepared a wedding feast and invited everyone to come. But that night, after the feast, instead of giving Rachel to Jacob, Laban gave his older daughter Leah to him.

The next day, Jacob went to Laban and said, “You tricked me!”

But Laban replied, “It is our custom for the older daughter to be married first. If you work for another seven years, I will also give you Rachel.”

Jacob agreed to the new deal. So after the bridal week was over, Rachel became Jacob’s wife as well, and Jacob had to work for Laban another seven years.

How should I react when I am tricked?

Have you ever made a deal with someone, only to find out that you have been tricked? What should you do?

Maybe you are angry because you feel used and humiliated. That’s understandable, but don’t react in anger or take revenge. Don’t let bitterness (hateful thoughts) make your life miserable.

Instead, tell your parents or a teacher what happened. They may be able to help you make a wise decision, like a judge does when two people disagree.

If there is nothing that can be done to change the situation, accept what has happened, forgive, and trust the Lord to make things right.

Verse for today

Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. Romans 12:19