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"How is it that God often blesses us even through means that are unwise, sinful, or seemingly foolish? In this message, we explore Jacob's strange and morally murky path to prosperity while serving Laban. This passage shows us that God works through sinful means to accomplish His holy ends.Jacob's peculiar breeding practices, Laban's deception, and the ongoing competition between the two men create a chaotic backdrop—but behind it all stands the sovereign grace of God. Jacob's wealth does not come from his own wisdom or skill. In fact, his methods are laughable by any standard. And yet, God blesses him anyway—not because of Jacob, but in spite of him.In this sermon, we consider:
In this episode, Todd dives into a pivotal moment in Jacob's life from Genesis 32 - the night he wrestled with God at Peniel. At a crossroads between his past with Laban and the looming confrontation with his brother Esau, Jacob finds himself in a situation where his careful preparations and planning might not be enough. This episode explores those moments in life when even our best preparations leave us needing something more. Through Jacob's transformative experience of wrestling and refusing to let go until receiving God's blessing, listeners will discover profound insights for both their faith journey and preparedness mindset. Todd examines how this ancient story reveals timeless wisdom for those moments when our gear, plans, and preparations fall short. Resources Listen to the RYF Podcast Download the Blackout Checklist
Big & Tom Tweak are BACK in the Fancy Lad Podcast studio with legend Laban Pheidias to talk Bonkersville, juggling, and Blockhead. All this!
Canciones de los discos más recientes del etiope Mulatu Astatke 'Tension' con Hoodna Orchestra ('Delilah', 'Hatula', ' 'Yashan'), el maliense Salif Keita ' So kono' ('Awa', 'Chérie', 'Kanté Manfila', 'Laban') y el senegalés Youssou N´Dour 'Éclairer le monde'/'Light the world' ('Machalla', 'Sam fall', 'Noflaay', 'Mbëggëel doole', 'Ahmadou Bamba'). De propina, 'Yékèrmo séw', de Mulatu, que Jim Jarmusch utilizó en la banda sonora de 'Broken Flowers'.Escuchar audio
In this episode of the Christian Prepper podcast, Todd explores "bugging out" through the story of Jacob in Genesis 31. Todd examines how Jacob, at God's direction, made the decision to leave his father-in-law Laban's household after years of mistreatment. The episode draws important parallels between Jacob's experience and the Christian life, highlighting that there are seasons when God calls believers to make significant changes. Beyond the spiritual application, Todd connects this biblical principle to practical preparedness, sharing his personal experience during Hurricane Harvey when he chose to "bug in" despite rising floodwaters while his neighbor evacuated. While acknowledging that bugging in is often preferable, he emphasizes the importance of being ready to leave when necessary, maintaining bug-out bags, emergency binders, and essential valuables. Resources Listen to the RYF Podcast Download the Blackout Checklist
Audio, eng_t_norav_2025-08-13_lesson_zohar-la-am-vayeshlah-im-lavan-garti_n4_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 4 :: Lessons_series. Zohar for All
Zohar for All. VaYishlach. I Have Resided with Laban
Video, eng_t_norav_2025-08-13_lesson_zohar-la-am-vayeshlah-im-lavan-garti_n4_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 4 :: Lessons_series. Zohar for All
In this episode, Todd delivers a message about the critical error many believers in the preparedness community often overlook - failing to exercise proper discernment. Drawing from the biblical story of Jacob and Laban in Genesis 30, Todd illustrates how even in ancient times, a lack of awareness about one's surroundings and circumstances led to costly outcomes. The episode weaves together scriptural wisdom with practical preparedness advice, challenging listeners to engage with both their faith and the realities of our complex world. Resources Listen to the RYF Podcast Download the Blackout Checklist
With the powerful hold idols have over us, is there any hope that we might dethrone these counterfeit gods? The answer is, “Yes!” …IF we take to heart this foundational truth. Idols cannot simply be removed – they have to be replaced.How do we do that? If we hope to deal with our idols, what we need is not merely a vague belief in God but a profound encounter with God.Jacob had such an encounter, and it changed him forever. We met Jacob and his wives, Leah and Rachel, in a previous message. By the time we get to Genesis 31, Jacob has settled into married life and is prospering quite nicely. But Jacob's success became a threat to his father-in-law, Laban, and tension began to grow between them. So, Jacob decided it was time to part ways and return to his homeland. By now, his parents were gone, but his twin brother, Esau, the one Jacob had deceived, was still around. And the last time they had seen each other, Esau threatened to kill him. As Jacob and his huge entourage of family, servants, flocks, and herds drew near, he received the alarming news. Esau was heading his way, accompanied by a small army. Jacob was sure Esau was coming to make good on his threat. So, he springs into action. He sends out some servants with a huge gift of livestock for his brother. Then he divides his family into smaller groups and sends them across the river. Now night is falling, and Jacob is alone. All of his life, Jacob had been a “control freak.” He had sought to control people and circumstances to get what he wanted. He demonstrates the ultimate counterfeit god: SELF.The idol of self comes in many forms: self-sufficiency, self-determination, self-rule. Every one of us is challenged by the idol of self. Like Jacob, you've determined to be a survivor. And like Jacob, you survived—but at a huge cost.Jacob's life had been one long wrestling match to get a blessing. He wrestled with Esau to hear it from his father's lips. He had wrestled with Laban to find it in Rachel's companionship. But it hadn't worked. He was still needy and empty on the inside. And now, he wrestles with God Himself. A mysterious figure comes to Jacob in the night, and they wrestle, struggling all night long, until at last, the Lord touches his hip and it is wrenched out of its socket. But rather than let go, Jacob clung all the harder. “I won't let go until you bless me!” He realized that nothing else matters. If he didn't have God's blessing, he didn't have anything.At long last, Jacob recognized the true God and surrendered to Him. God gave him a new name—Israel. And He left him with a reminder of who is really in control: Jacob would walk with a limp for the rest of his life.Jacob's transformation came after a profound encounter with God. And, in the end, that is the only remedy against idolatry. When you know God as GOD, you don't need anything or anyone else. And when you give control to Him, you don't have to bow to the idol of self. Text: Genesis 31-32Originally recorded on December 12, 2010, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN
"In this powerful passage, Jacob—the one who deceived his father and brother—is now himself deceived by Laban. But behind the earthly injustice is the divine hand of providence and justice. God's perfect justice brings Jacob face to face with his own sin, as the deceiver becomes the deceived.This sermon explores:
Thursday with Tabitha 9. Obadiah by Tabitha Smith This week we've reached the little book of Obadiah. He was the most minor of the minor prophets, in that his book is the shortest! In fact, it's the shortest book in the whole of the Old Testament with just one chapter, containing 21 verses. ~ Obadiah means “one who serves Yahweh”. We're not told anything else about the prophet himself. In the course of the prophecy, the fall of Jerusalem (which happened in 586 BC) is referred to as a past event and the fall of Edom (which happened in 553 BC) as a future event. So it is likely that the book was written between these events. ~ To understand the background to Obadiah, we need to head back to Genesis, to the account of the brothers Jacob and Esau. These two non-identical twins were born to Isaac and Rebekah. Even from their birth, they showed signs of not exactly getting along. Esau was born first, all red and hairy, and Jacob followed after him, grasping his heel. They grew up to be very different. Esau was a skilled hunter, favoured by his father, whilst Joseph was an introverted man who preferred to stay with his mother in the proximity of the family tents. ~ Jacob famously tricked the hungry Esau out of his birth rite and later stole his father's blessing by disguising himself as his older brother and fooling the elderly, blind Isaac. So Esau swore revenge on his brother and fully intended to kill him. Rebekah helped Jacob to escape and he fled to the territory of his uncle Laban. There he met and married his wives, Leah and Rachel. Esau, who was also called Edom, married several wives, including an Ishmaelite woman (that is, a descendent of Abraham's first son by the slave girl Hagar). ~ Jacob and Esau did meet again some years later, and much to Jacob's relief and surprise, Esau didn't kill him on the spot but appeared to have forgiven him. Jacob still didn't trust him though, and he took his family off in a different direction to avoid having to be in close proximity to his brother's family. Jacob had 12 sons by his two wives and their two servants. His 4th son, one of Leah's children, was Judah, and from his line the tribe of Judah came into existence. From Esau's line came the tribe of the Edomites. The Edomites lived in the hill country of Seir. This was a mountainous region about 1500m above sea level. Their territory appeared to be impenetrable and they felt quite safe in their high dwellings. In Numbers 20 we read that after the Exodus from Egypt, the Israelites asked the Edomites for permission to pass through their territory along the King's Highway. The Edomites refused, adding to the tensions between these two tribes. However, in Deuteronomy 23:7-8, God commanded the Israelites that they should not hate an Edomite in view of the brotherly connection between the two tribes. ~ Edom was defeated by king Saul in the 11th century BC and subdued again by king David 40 years later. Edom became a vassal state of Israel but it was never completely de-stroyed. ~ Fast forward to the time of Obadiah, and we find that the tribe of Judah, the sole remnant of the original 12 tribes of Israel, had been conquered and the capital city of Jerusalem had fallen to the Babylonians. During the conquest of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, some of the Judeans had tried to escape from the city and flee into the surrounding coun-tryside. The Edomites, rather than helping their neighbours and brothers in the time of their distress, sided with the foreign invaders and handed over the fleeing Israelites to the Babylonians. Psalm 137:7 recalls how the Edomites gloated over the destruction of Jeru-salem: Remember, O LORD, against the Edomites the day of Jerusalem, how they said, “Lay it bare, lay it bare, down to its foundations!” ~ The main theme of Obadiah is the judgement of the Edomites for the way they betrayed the people of Judah during the Babylonian invasion. ~ The first 15 verses of the book are addressed to the people of Edom. God scorns the pride and arrogance of the Edomites, who say to themselves, “who will bring me down to the ground?” (v3), referring to their perceived safety in their high mountain region. But God will bring them down and they will be punished for their evil deeds. The prophet mixes both past tense and future tense verbs when describing Edom's fate. This is a technique that can be found in prophetic writing, when future events are sometimes described as if they had already happened. ~ God's message through Obadiah is that Edom will be completely destroyed, with not a trace left behind. The main charges against Edom are found in verses 12-14: "But do not gloat over the day of your brother in the day of his misfortune; do not rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their ruin; do not boast in the day of distress. Do not enter the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; do not gloat over his disaster in the day of his calamity; do not loot his wealth in the day of his calamity. Do not stand at the crossroads to cut off his fugitives; do not hand over his survivors in the day of distress." ~ The judgement is summarised in verse 15: "As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head." ~ The final part of the book relates to the people of Jerusalem. God promises that he will preserve a remnant of his people who will survive the exile and reclaim the land that is theirs, according to his plans and promise. To the devastated people of Judah, this would have been an incredible promise of hope. It seemed, to all intents and purposes, that their future was doomed and that God's promises to Abraham had come to nothing. But God promises that Judah will become like a raging fire once more, whilst Edom is reduced to stubble. Judah's time of judgement for her own sin would be over, and then God would judge her enemies. The final words of the book, in verse 21, declare that “the kingdom shall be the Lord's.” The promised land of the Old Testament foretells the reality of the greater promised land, which is the coming kingdom of God. Matthew's gospel in particular speaks of this prom-ised kingdom, which Jesus ushered in during his time on earth. The whole of the Bible is the story of this ultimate kingdom, reaching its climax in the book of Revelation. The king-dom of God is already here, but it is not yet fully here. That won't happen until Jesus re-turns. In chapter 11 of the book of Hebrews, the writer recounts the names of the men and women of the Old Testament who trusted in God's promises to them regarding the coming kingdom. He then writes in verse 13-16: “These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” ~ This city is the new Jerusalem, the heavenly kingdom. Jesus used several metaphors to try to help his listeners grasp the nature of the kingdom of God. He described it as a tiny mustard seed which grew into a huge tree, or as a tiny amount of yeast which could make a whole batch of dough rise. From tiny, seemingly in-consequential beginnings, something great grows. When all seemed lost to the exiled people of Judah, God says “just wait and see what I will do”. And the glory of the final kingdom is made all the greater by the trial of the journey. ~ You and I are invited to be part of this coming kingdom of God. No matter how small and insignificant we might feel in the great plan of God, and no matter how dire our circumstances seem to be, we can be assured that God's kingdom is coming and we can be part of it. It is surprising and mysterious, hidden and yet revealed, wonderful and awesome. It is something new, something different, something glorious. It is possible for the wisest brains to miss it completely whilst little children understand and embrace it. ~ God is doing a new thing and he invites us to come and see. The prophet Isaiah recorded God's words to his exiled people: “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19) ~ Some 700 years after Isaiah, Jesus walked the streets of Jerusalem and declared: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) ~ Even the seemingly obscure prophecy of Obadiah is part of Jesus' great story. It's all about him. Between the lines of prophecy about Edom and Judah we see the greater picture of God's redemption plan and his justice, mercy and grace. When the risen Jesus walked on the road to Emmaus and explained to the amazed disciples how the Law and all the prophets spoke about himself, I like to think that he said a bit about Obadiah. ~ We've got four more books to look at before this series draws to a close, and there are lots more interesting things to come as we look at Haggai, Zechariah, Joel and Malachi. Join me next week if you can! ~ ~ Right Mouse click or tap here to download this episode as an audio mp3 file
Our Top 10 for today: #TaposNaAngLaban
The Warriors have expressed their disappointment in the two match ban handed to a Dolphins player for breaking Warrior Jacob Laban's leg. Felise Kau-fusi caused the injury after diving at Laban's legs during their NRL clash on Friday night, sidelining him for the reminder of the season. Sports reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Lisa Owen.
Het verhaal van Jakob eindigde met een dikke vette cliffhanger. En deze week gaat het verhaal door. Maar… het lijkt alsof het vorige verhaal niet gebeurd is. Isaak is niet meer ziek? Geen boze Ezau meer? En een andere Jakob dan we tot nu toe hebben leren kennen. Hier wordt de aartsvader Jakob geboren. Luister nu de nieuwste aflevering van Gelukkig De Mens: Jakob deel 3 via #spotify, #pocketcasts, #applepodcasts, www.gelukkigdemens.nl/187-jakob-deel-3 in je eigen podcastapp. Genesis 28 Toen liet Isaak Jakob roepen, zegende hem en hield hem voor: ‘Trouw in geen geval een meisje uit Kanaän. Vertrek van hier, ga naar Paddan-Aram, naar de familie van Betuel, de vader van je moeder, en trouw met een van de dochters van Laban, je moeders broer. God, de Ontzagwekkende, moge je zegenen, je vruchtbaar maken en je veel nakomelingen geven, zodat er een groot aantal volken uit je voortkomt. Moge Hij jou en je nakomelingen de zegen van Abraham geven, zodat je het land waar je nu nog als vreemdeling woont en dat God aan Abraham heeft gegeven, in bezit krijgt.' Zo stuurde Isaak Jakob weg, en hij vertrok naar Paddan-Aram, naar Laban, die een zoon was van de Arameeër Betuel en een broer van Rebekka, de moeder van Jakob en Esau. [...]
On this episode we begin with a scientific discussion, then Laban gives us an update on his dog. From there we get straight into the new James Gunn film SUPERMAN. We talk pretty extensively about it and get into spoiler territory. So watch the movie first. Or skip the movie and just listen to this episode. You can't tell from the recording but during this episode we had a four-way arm wrestling match going on the entire time. We had to cut it off before a winner was crowned because we all passed out at the exact same time and my wife had to call the ambulance. It was crazy but in the end we are stronger brothers for it and we got the ride in the ambulance together still clenched. The EMTs let us finish recording the episode which was sick and they had the siren blasting the whole ride Email us thegoodbrothersshow@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook @thegoodbrothersshow
“Christ may act the part of an enemy a little while. . . but it is to make way for acting His own part of mercy in a more seasonable time. He cannot restrain His compassion long.” —Richard Sibbes This week, on Doctrine for Life, Dr. Joel Beeke continues his sermon on the story of Jacob and Laban, comforting us with the promise that God will even use the sins of His people for their ultimate good. The Doctrine for Life Podcast presents weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of the Rev. Dr. Joel R. Beeke. Listen to these biblical, Christ-exalting broadcasts to experience the truth of God's Word for real life.
“Everyone knows what is most pleasant to him, but God alone knows what is most profitable.” —Thomas Boston This week, on Doctrine for Life, Dr. Joel Beeke examines the story of Jacob and Laban, reminding us how God uses trials to bless His people. The Doctrine for Life Podcast presents weekly sermons from the preaching ministry of the Rev. Dr. Joel R. Beeke. Listen to these biblical, Christ-exalting broadcasts to experience the truth of God's Word for real life.
On Sunday morning, our sermon series on the Book of Genesis continued with Jacob leaving Laban. Though Laban was angry and confronted Jacob, we see the Lord's hand of protection over him. A word of warning, if your god can fit in a camel's saddle, they aren't a god, they're an idol. We hope this sermon blesses you in the Lord. Originally July 20th, 2025. Hank Atchison. Covenant Church. Tuscaloosa, AL.
Pastor Randy taught a sermon titled, "God's People" from Genesis 29-30. God Uses People in Spite of Our: COMPARING (vs. 29:29-35) COMPETING (vs. 30:1-13) COMPLAINING (vs. 30:14-24) Next Sunday, Pastor Randy will teach a sermon titled, God's Blessing from Genesis 29-30. Homework: Read Gen. 31:1 - 32:21 and answer these questions: 1. How did God show Jacob and his wives favor after Laban deceived him? 2. List the sins committed in Ch. 31. 3. What plan did Jacob have to appease Esau's anger toward him?
Hoping to get another 7 years of work from Jacob, Laban deceived him. God kept his promises to Jacob, just as he protects us from the deceiver in keeping with his promises.
On Friday, K'Lee, Azura & Charlie caught up with One NZ Warriors player Jacob Laban ahead of tonight's match against the Newcastle Knights. Kick off 6pm, plus our wahine Warriors kicking off after at 8pm. For more, follow our socials: Instagram Facebook TikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
July 13. 2025.
Scammer ang mag-asawang si Brando at Jeny. Marami na silang naloko at malaki na rin ang kinikita nila rito. Pero nang tamaan ng konsensya si Jeny, napagdesisyunan na nilang magbago. Itutuwid na raw nila ang baluktot nilang pamumuhay, babalik na sila sa probinsya para makasama ang kanilang unica hija. Kaso hindi ganoon kadali magbago, nami-miss pa rin nila ang buhay sa Maynila. Gusto sana nilang magsimula ulit kaso hindi talaga siguro nakakalimot ang karma. Pakinggan ang kwento ni Brando sa Barangay Love Stories.
As Laban chases after Jacob we see that to go against Jacob is to go against God. See how a covenant between these two points to the future.
Our sermon series continues in Genesis 29 and 30 with the life of Jacob. Jacob, now with two wives, experiences competition and growth before desiring to set out and return to his home land. Before he goes, he structures a deal with Laban. What we see in these two chapters, is what we see in all of scripture- God is faithful. We hope this sermon blesses you in the Lord. Originally July 13th, 2025. Zachary Nelson. Covenant Church. Tuscaloosa, AL.
Rev. Dr. Jacob Bolton preaches on the Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. The Scripture passage is Genesis 29:16-30.
It's always fun to talk to someone from the Strangite Church, officially known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Strangite) Based in Burlington, Wisconsin, this branch of the Latter-day Saint movement offers a distinctive perspective on the succession of Joseph Smith and the ongoing divine restoration. https://youtu.be/RUL8rF0hb4U Strangite Genesis in Voree The current headquarters of the Strangite Church is Burlington, Wisconsin. Interestingly, the area holds historical significance with multiple names. It was originally called Foxville. While today it's known as Burlington, a specific area on the west side of town where the Mormon settlement was located was called Voree by the early Strangites, a name associated with the significant "Voree record". James J. Strang led his followers to this location, believing God had instructed them to move from Nauvoo. James Strang was dispatched to the Burlington area by Joseph Smith, having been baptized and made an elder by Smith himself. Strang wrote back to Joseph Smith, suggesting Voree would be a "wonderful place for a gathering" due to its rich resources like fish, fresh water, great farmland, and good soil near the Great Lakes. Initially, Joseph Smith was hesitant, but after discussion with Hyrum Smith and a subsequent spiritual revelation, he concluded that Voree was indeed a good place for the Saints. James J. Strang: Joseph Smith's Chosen Successor? The Strangite Church believes that James J. Strang was divinely appointed as Joseph Smith's successor. This belief is rooted in two pivotal events: The Letter of Appointment: Joseph Smith penned a letter to James A. Strang, officially appointing him as his successor. This original letter is now preserved at Yale University in the Beineke Library, with copies available for members. The Angelic Ordination: On the very day Joseph Smith was assassinated, June 27, 1844, angels appeared to James J. Strang and ordained him a prophet. These were believed to be the same angels who ordained Joseph Smith – Peter, James, and John. Strang was aware of Joseph's death through this angelic visitation even before news arrived from Nauvoo. Furthermore, it's believed that Jesus also anointed Strang as the King of Israel for the gentile dispensation, an ordination attributed to his lineage from the royal line of King David. Sacred Texts and Prophetic Interpretations The Strangite Church embraces a unique canon of scripture beyond what is common in other Latter-day Saint traditions: The Voree Plates: These ancient plates were revealed to James Strang through a vision from the angel Moroni, known as the Hill of Promise. Strang gathered leading citizens to witness their excavation from beneath a tree, about four feet down, where roots had grown around them. The plates, housed in an earthen case, crumbled upon exposure to air due to their age. Witnesses, including a newspaper reporter from Kenosha, confirmed the ancient nature of the record and that the site had been undisturbed. Strang translated them using the Urim and Thummim given to him by the angel Moroni, much like Joseph Smith used the Urim and Thummim to translate the Book of Mormon. The Voree Plates provide a brief history of a people who were "no more" and, most notably, contained a pictorial drawing depicting the true structure of the priesthood, including the prophet lawgiver, two viceroys, twelve apostles, high priests, and seventies. These plates were translated around 1844. The Book of the Law: This significant text is believed to be the "stick of Judah" spoken of in Ezekiel 37. According to Strangite belief, Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon (the stick of Ephraim), but was instructed not to touch the sealed record, which was the Book of the Law, meant for a future prophet. James J. Strang, being of the tribe of Judah with Jewish ancestry, translated the Book of the Law after receiving the plates of Laban from the angel Moroni.
in Genesis 31 God tells Jacob it is time to go back to Haran. Laban is not happy at this, and the interaction between Jacob and Laban give us the opportunity to think about Laban's selfishness one last time. This is what we will think about in our time together.
I've visited some temples recently! "Gospel Tangents" recently hosted a surprise live session, a "late night unannounced edition," much to the delight of its "night owl" viewers. I shared a whirlwind of Temples, Travels, updates, upcoming content, and even some breaking news from various Restorationist traditions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jw_a2PA5jAU Temples, Travels, & Timely Insights! I've been traveling extensively, leading to a "boatload of pictures" and a significant backlog of videos waiting to be edited. Despite the busy schedule, i'm eager to share my experiences: Community of Christ World Conference in Independence: Rick attended and captured his reactions to Stassi Cramm being ordained the new prophet. While there, he met a man from New Zealand (a "Kiwi") and expressed hope for interviews with people from the Temple Lot Church, including Tom from a fundamentalist group and potentially Stassi Cramm herself. Mormon History Association (MHA): This event also proved fruitful, including tours of LDS churches, such as an old one in Ogden and Joseph Soderberg's church where President Hinckley reportedly gained his testimony. Exploring the Strangites in Wisconsin: This trip was a major highlight. I stayed with Bill Shepard, a former guest, and toured various Strangite sites with Gary Weber and David Boice. ◦ A key stop was the Hill of Promise, which the Strangites consider akin to the Hill Cumorah. It's believed to be where James J. Strang found the Voree record, a "short record of the people of Raja Ramor." This record described a people similar to those in the Book of Mormon, with a priesthood structure mirroring Joseph and James's. The Hill of Promise also holds future significance, as Strangite revelations state that Daniel from the Bible will appear there to announce Christ's approaching second coming. ◦ I also visited the site of the unbuilt Strangite temple in Burlington, which was planned to be "quite significant" in size. ◦ Rick also drove by James Strang's house in Burlington, where Strang died three weeks after his assassination on the dock of Lake Michiga. ◦ A fascinating piece of news is that David Boice is moving to Utah at the end of July. Rick plans to visit Beaver Island (Strangite Island) in July or August, noting that while Gary Weber says there's "not a lot to see," one can rent a golf cart for getting around. He also mentioned Vicki Speek is working on a census of the island. ◦ For those unfamiliar, James J. Strang claimed an angelic ordination on the day Joseph Smith died (June 27, 1844). He translated the Voree plates and later the "plates of Laban" (published as the Book of the Law of the Lord). He settled in Burlington, then moved to Beaver Island, where he was crowned king and even served in the Michigan legislature. His efforts to stop Gentiles from selling liquor to Native Americans reportedly led to his assassination with the help of the U.S. Navy. Upcoming Trip to Calgary and Cardston, Alberta: Rick is flying to Calgary for his son's wedding. He plans to make a video about the Cardston Alberta Temple, which was the first international temple for the LDS Church. Some compare it to the Mesa Temple and notes its "pioneer feel" like the Manti Temple. The Cardston Temple's murals are darker, possibly due to varnish, and hopes for a refurbishment once a new temple opens in Lethbridge. Book Giveaways and Exciting New Releases The live session included a book giveaway for "Joseph Fielding Smith a Mormon Theologian," won by Mark Francis. Looking ahead, the channel is celebrating the release of John Turner's new book, "Joseph Smith The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," which launched in June on Amazon. (The contest is over now.) Rick gave away an autographed copy of this book. Potentially "Breaking News" from the Temple Lot Church I discovered some surprising news regarding the Temple Lot Church: they are "going to quit selling the Book of Commandme...
An idol is anything more important to you than God, anything that absorbs your attention and affection more than God, anything you seek to give you what only God can give.Idols can take on many forms: money, success, power, popularity, or physical attractiveness. But idols can also take on human form. When you look to a person for the kind of deep affirmation and acceptance that only God can provide, it results not only in pain but in bondage.The Bible graphically illustrates this in the story of Jacob and Leah. Jacob had a twin brother, Esau. Esau was their father, Isaac's favorite—his idol. Because of this, Esau grew up proud, willful, and impulsive, while Jacob grew up cynical, bitter, and conniving. After Jacob deceived his father and received the blessing Esau desired, Esau vowed to kill Jacob. So, Jacob fled for his life. He ended up in his Uncle Laban's house, where he got a job tending sheep. There he met Laban's daughters—Leah and Rachel. Leah had “weak eyes,” while Rachel was beautiful. Jacob was utterly smitten by the lovely Rachel. He had to have her. He would do anything for her. She became his idol. This unhealthy desire consumed Jacob. Rachel was not just the wife he wanted; she was the savior he needed. Jacob asked her father for her hand in marriage. But Laban deceived the deceiver, Jacob, and after working for seven years, Laban gave him, not Rachel, but Leah. Jacob had to work another seven years for Rachel.Perhaps the greatest casualty in this story is Leah. The daughter whom her father did not want is now the wife her husband did not want. As a result, Leah had a hole in her heart every bit as big as the one in Jacob's heart. And now she tries to fill it with a person. She sets her heart on getting Jacob's love.Genesis 29:31 says that “when the Lord saw that Leah was not loved, he enabled her to conceive, but Rachel remained childless.” The Lord gave Leah sons, and with each birth she thought, “Maybe now Jacob will love me.” But it didn't work out that way.Ironically, after all that pain, Leah is the one who shows spiritual progress in all this. When her last son is born, her response is, “This time I will praise the Lord.” It appears that she has finally taken her heart's deepest devotion off of a person and put it on the Lord. She has dealt with her idol.I look at what God did in Leah, and then I consider what God did for her. If you track the genealogy of Jesus, you will see that of all Jacob's sons, He came through the line of Judah, Leah's son. God reached out to the girl that nobody wanted, the unloved one, and made her the ancestral mother of the Messiah. Salvation came to the world, not through the beautiful Rachel, but through the unwanted, unloved Leah.No human can bear the burden of godhood. No person can meet the deepest needs of your soul.Jesus is the only one who can live up to the hopes, dreams, indeed, the expectations that we all have. And only when we place Him in the temple of our hearts in a position of unrivaled prominence will we be in a position to love anyone well. Text: Genesis 29Originally recorded on December 5, 2010, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN
Significance of Abraham; Tree of Life; Reviewing Gen 23; Idolatry; "Worship"; Seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness; Tribute; William the Conqueror; Abraham outside world governments; Following Abraham, Moses and Christ; Misunderstanding "religion"; Abraham's altars; Making the word of God TO effect; The path to peace; Appetite for benefits; Gen 24:1; Power in prayer; Pursuing righteousness; Lot's journey; God's blessing for Abraham; Finding a wife for Isaac; Exploring the Hebrew; biet-vav-aleph - removing the vav?; Pictorial Aleph; Translational loss of meaning; Walking with the LORD; Tree of Knowledge?; Fear not!; Seeking God's wisdom; Taking an oath; Setting people free; Empowering; Gen 24:7; Watering camels?; Being tested (torment); Blessings and curses; Wisdom (women) vs foolishness (harlots); Devouring your neighbor; Human resources; Cities of blood; Freedom of choice; Rebekah; Sitting in the light of the Tree of Life; Gen 24:26 vav-yod-shin-tav-chet-vav (worship); lamad+yod-hey-vav-hey; Laban; Other men with the camels; Isaac's inheritance; Repetition of stories; Bargaining to keep Rebekah around; Rebekah's choice; Arranging marriages?; Oppressing women?; Living for the next generation; Referencing the red sea crossing; From generation to generation; Why does God allow evil things?; Bearing false witness; v61; "Lahairoi" biet+resh-aleph-yod; nun-gimel-biet (negeb?); "south"; v63 Isaac's meditation; Isaac's seeing Rebekah; Lifting up eyes?; Covering with a vail?; v67 packed with meaning; Sarah's position; "Virgin" means more; Leaving the city; Overcoming fear; Covering beauty; "Meditate" suwach lamad+shin-vav-chet; shin = eternal flame of revelation (divine spark); Source?; Lamad = hand; vav - divide/connect/vail; chet = life force, cause/effect; Rebekah's gold; More precious than rubies?; Meditate, be still and know.
God is a second mile God — and He's raising up a second mile church. In this message, Pastor Marcus unpacks what it means to go beyond what's expected, just like Jacob, Joseph, and Rebekah.When others mistreat you… when life feels unfair… God sees your faithfulness. And He blesses those who go further when no one's watching. Don't settle for average. The first mile is law — the second mile is love.
Genesis 29 pt3 - Dont Hate Your Laban by Ray Jensen
Genesis 29 pt2 - Dont Hate Your Laban by Ray Jensen
Don't hate your Laban.
[Matthew 5:38-42, Monday of the 11th Wrrk in the Ordinary Time]
Leslie had a book on her heart for decades, and decided her day job and busy personal life didn't have to stand in the way of getting it done! In this episode you will hear how 100 Epic Days helped Leslie release the pressure, stabilize a solid daily writing practice, and feel empowered to write her book amidst the chaos of life.Laban for Animators (Leslie's website)Leslie Bishko on LinkedIn- - - - -100 Epic DaysEpic StartPrivate Coaching. please email: leeanne@leeannebrennan.comRate & Review my podcast and get $200 OFF Epic Start. Email your review to: leeanne@leeannebrennan.com Leeanne's Instagram: @createwithleeanneLeeanne's art: www.epicbcones.com
June 15, 2025.
In this episode, Skyler Kilzer teaches through Genesis 31 and the conflict between Jacob and Laban
Thank you for listening in to our Laurelglen Bible Church Sunday sermon. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call the church office at 661-833-2800 or check out our website www.laurelglen.org.Scripture Reference: Genesis 32:1-32
Episode 87 – In-Laws: Navigating Boundaries, Expectations, and Blessings In-laws often get a bad rap. From sitcom jokes to horror stories passed around at bridal showers, it's almost a cliché to talk about how difficult mothers-in-law can be. But are in-laws really the problem—or is it the lack of clear boundaries and expectations that causes the most damage? In this episode of Operation: Thriving Marriage, Bryon and Jennifer Harvey dive deep into the often-sensitive topic of in-law relationships. They challenge the stereotype that in-laws are always intrusive or toxic and instead present a more balanced view: in-laws can be either a blessing or a burden, depending on how couples handle the relationship. Bryon starts the conversation by pointing out that in-laws are commonly misunderstood and unfairly criticized. Jen adds her perspective and highlights that many couples actually long for more connection with extended family—especially when distance or loss creates a void. The key isn't to push in-laws away but to create healthy, God-honoring boundaries that protect the marriage. Of course, the problems are real. In-laws can be invasive. They can have strong opinions about how holidays should be spent, how children should be raised, or how decisions should be made. These problems often stem from unshared or unspoken expectations—on both sides. When couples don't talk through what's acceptable and what isn't, they leave room for conflict, misunderstanding, and resentment. Before offering solutions, Bryon and Jen take a moment to acknowledge that culture plays a big role in how families interact. In some cultures, extended family is deeply involved in day-to-day life. In others, independence is prioritized. So it's not about “right” or “wrong,” but about clarity and unity as a couple. Looking to Scripture, the Harveys highlight that even in the Bible, in-law dynamics could be messy. Think of Jacob and Laban—manipulation, dishonesty, and control defined that relationship. It's a powerful reminder that family doesn't always operate in a healthy way, and it's okay to draw a line when needed. The bottom line? Your marriage is your marriage. When you got married, you started a new family, and that relationship must come first. That means you need to establish boundaries—not out of rebellion or bitterness, but out of love and wisdom. Bryon and Jen walk through a helpful process for setting those boundaries: Identify what your in-laws expect by having clarifying conversations. Discuss your own expectations as a couple regarding your relationship with extended family. Talk through specifics like how much time to spend together, who hosts holidays, what to do for birthdays, how to handle gifts, and how to engage with siblings-in-law differently than parents-in-law. Address concerns directly with your own parents—don't expect your spouse to fight your family battles. Remember Genesis 2:24: leaving your parents and becoming one with your spouse isn't about cutting ties—it's about forming a new primary relationship. As the episode wraps up, the Harveys emphasize that in-laws truly can be a huge blessing. When approached with clear communication and firm-but-loving boundaries, they can be a significant source of support and encouragement. But if left unchecked, they can also become a damaging influence on your marriage—especially when unspoken expectations carry over into your home. The key is to always prioritize your relationship with your spouse. When you're united, you can handle the complexities of extended family without letting them erode the foundation of your marriage. Key Scripture: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24 (NIV) Want more support on this topic? Grab a copy of Operation: Thriving Marriage for practical tools to strengthen your relationship, or browse other episodes on boundaries, conflict resolution, and biblical marriage principles.
Thank you for listening in to our Laurelglen Bible Church Sunday sermon. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call the church office at 661-833-2800 or check out our website www.laurelglen.org.Scripture Reference: Genesis 31:1-55
Jacob is no longer running from Laban, but he's not yet safe. The road ahead leads straight to Esau, the brother he betrayed, the man he hasn't seen in twenty years. As he prepares for the encounter, Jacob divides his camp, sends gifts ahead, and prays like a man caught between two dangers. But this night will hold more than fear. Before the sun rises, Jacob will be alone—and he will wrestle with God. The Rev. Sean Daenzer, Director of Worship for the LCMS and Chaplain of the International Center, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 32. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.
Jacob escapes with his family, crossing into Gilead while Laban gives chase. When he catches up, accusations fly, but Laban fails to prove that anyone in Jacob's camp stole his household gods. With no evidence and mounting tension, the two men draw a line in the sand—literally—by forging a covenant of peace. This treaty, sealed with a meal and an oath, marks a turning point as Jacob steps further into the promises of God. Rev. Craig Wehmeyer, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Washington, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 31:21-55. To learn more about Immanuel Lutheran, visit IMLutheran.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.
After twenty years of toil, manipulation, and double-dealing, Jacob has had enough and is ready to go home. God himself appears to him and gives him assurance that the time has come. But leaving Laban isn't as simple as packing a few bags. There are flocks to tend to, his wives and children to protect, and his desire to escape without any further trouble from Laban. The Rev. Dr. Brian Saunders, president of the Iowa District East--LCMS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 31:1-21. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.
PLEASE FILL OUT OUR SURVEY: https://bit.ly/BLNOlistenersurveyContinuing their journey through the Ten Commandments, Rabbi Fohrman and Imu examine murder and adultery through the lens of the Genesis Deception story. They unpack why Esau—usually painted as the bad guy—holds back from killing Jacob even when he knows exactly where to find him, giving us a fresh take on "Do not murder." Then they explore how Laban's meddling in Jacob's marriage to Rachel offers a surprising spin on adultery—showing it's not just about infidelity, but about the damage caused when someone interferes in sacred relationships. Through their analysis, a profound message emerges: the commandments aren't simply rules, but wisdom about how our actions affect our deepest connections and desires.For more on Rabbi Fohrman's reading of the deception story, see this essay from his book Genesis: A Parsha Companion, as well as this video Why Did Rebecca Trick Her Husband Isaac. A Book Like No Other is a product of Aleph Beta, and made possible through the generous support of Shari and Nathan Lindenbaum. Aleph Beta is a Torah media company dedicated to spreading the joy and love of meaningful Torah learning worldwide.