Podcasts about Paddan Aram

Title: The Messianic Torah Observer: Reflections on Torah Reading 33   Description: Join Rod Thomas as he delves into Torah Reading 33, exploring the transformative journey of Ya'achov (Jacob) and the reaffirmation of the covenant by Yehovah. This episode covers the significance of Ya'achov's encounters, the importance of supporting Israel, and the lessons we can learn from the patriarchs. Rod also shares updates on the Qumran Family Foundation's efforts in Kenya and invites listeners to support the ministry.   Key Points:   Ya'achov's journey from Paddan Aram to Canaan and his divine encounters. The reaffirmation of the covenant and the significance of Ya'achov's name change to Yisra'el. The importance of supporting Israel in times of conflict. Updates on the Qumran Family Foundation's educational programs in Kenya. Encouragement to support the ministry through prayers and financial contributions.   Call to Action: Visit [https://themessianictorahobserver.org](https://themessianictorahobserver.org) for more information and to support the ministry. Subscribe to our YouTube and Rumble channels for more content.

A Preplanned Detour - Groundwork for RedemptionWebsite: http://www.battle4freedom.com/Network: https://www.mojo50.comStreaming: https://www.rumble.com/Battle4Freedomhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2043%3A11&version=CJBIsaiah 43:11I, yes I, am Adonai; besides me there is no deliverer.Genesis 46:1 Isra'el took everything he owned with him on his journey. He arrived at Be'er-Sheva and offered sacrifices to the G_d of his father Yitz'chak. 2 In a vision at night G_d called to Isra'el, "Ya`akov! Ya`akov!" He answered, "Here I am." 3 He said, "I am G_d, the G_d of your father. Don't be afraid to go down to Egypt. It is there that I will make you into a great nation. 4 Not only will I go down with you to Egypt; but I will also bring you back here again, after Yosef has closed your eyes."Genesis 46:5 So Ya`akov left Be'er-Sheva; the sons of Isra'el brought Ya`akov their father, their little ones and their wives in the wagons Pharaoh had sent to carry them. 6 They took their cattle and their possessions which they had acquired in the land of Kena`an and arrived in Egypt, Ya`akov and all his descendants with him — 7 his sons, grandsons, daughters, granddaughters and all his descendants he brought with him into Egypt.Genesis 46:8 These are the names of Isra'el's children who came into Egypt, Ya`akov and his sons: Re'uven Ya`akov's firstborn; 9 and the sons of Re'uven — Hanokh, Pallu, Hetzron and Karmi. 10 The sons of Shim`on: Y'mu'el, Yamin, Ohad, Yakhin, Tzochar and Sha'ul the son of a Kena`ani woman. 11 The sons of Levi: Gershon, K'hat and M'rari.Genesis 46:12 The sons of Y'hudah: `Er, Onan, Shelah, Peretz and Zerach; but `Er and Onan died in the land of Kena`an. The sons of Peretz were Hetzron and Hamul. 13 The sons of Yissakhar: Tola, Puvah, Yov and Shimron. 14 The sons of Z'vulun: Sered, Elon and Yachle'el. 15 These were the children of Le'ah whom she bore to Ya`akov in Paddan-Aram, with his daughter Dinah. In sum, his sons and daughters numbered thirty-three. Genesis 46:16 The sons of Gad: Tzifyon, Haggi, Shuni, Etzbon, `Eri, Arodi and Ar'eli. 17 The children of Asher: Yimnah, Yishvah, Yishvi, B'ri`ah, and their sister Serach. The sons of B'ri`ah were Hever and Malki'el. 18 These were the children of Zilpah, whom Lavan gave to Le'ah his daughter; she bore them to Ya`akov — sixteen people. Genesis 46:19 The sons of Rachel Ya`akov's wife: Yosef and Binyamin. 20 To Yosef in the land of Egypt were born M'nasheh and Efrayim, whom Osnat the daughter of Poti-Fera priest of On bore to him. 21 The sons of Binyamin: Bela, Bekher, Ashbel, Gera, Na`aman, Echi, Rosh, Mupim, Hupim and Ard. 22 These were the children of Rachel who were born to Ya`akov — in sum, fourteen people.Genesis 46:23 The sons of Dan: Hushim. 24 The sons of Naftali: Yachtze'el, Guni, Yetzer and Shillem. 25 These were the sons of Bilhah, whom Lavan gave to Rachel his daughter; she bore them to Ya`akov — in sum, seven people.Genesis 46:26 All the people belonging to Ya`akov coming into Egypt, his direct descendants (not counting Ya`akov's sons' wives), totaled sixty-six. 27 The sons of Yosef, born to him in Egypt, were two in number. Thus all the people in Ya`akov's family who entered Egypt numbered seventy.Genesis 46:28 Ya`akov sent Y'hudah ahead of him to Yosef, so that the latter might guide him on the road to Goshen; thus they arrived in the land of Goshen. 29 Yosef prepared his chariot and went up to Goshen to meet Isra'el his father. He presented himself to him, embraced him and wept on his neck for a long time. 30 Then Isra'el said to Yosef, "Now I can die, because I have seen your face and seen that you are still alive."Genesis 46:31 Yosef said to his brothers and his father's family, "I'm going up to tell Pharaoh. I'll say to him, `My brothers and my father's family, who were in the land of Kena`an, have come to me. 32 The men are shepherds and keepers of livestock; they have brought their flocks, their herds and all their possessions.' 33 Now when Pharaoh summons you and asks, `What is your occupation?' 34 tell him, `Your servants have been keepers of livestock from our youth until now, both we and our ancestors.' This will ensure that you will live in the land of Goshen — for any shepherd is abhorrent to the Egyptians."Credit to:https://unsplash.com/photos/pathway-between-trees-74TufExdP3Yhttps://unsplash.com/photos/black-and-white-arrow-sign-Vckq-heaypghttps://unsplash.com/photos/gray-wall-paint-taO2fC7sxDU

Jacob arrives at Paddan Aram.

Isolating Israel - Spiritual Spring CleaningWebsite: http://www.battle4freedom.com/Network: https://www.mojo50.comStreaming: https://www.rumble.com/Battle4Freedomhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%207%3A6&version=CJBDeuteronomy 7:6For you are a people set apart as holy for Adonai your G_d. Adonai your G_d has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his own unique treasure.Genesis 35:1 G_d said to Ya`akov, "Get up, go up to Beit-El and live there, and make there an altar to G_d, who appeared to you when you fled `Esav your brother." 2 Then Ya`akov said to his household and all the others with him, "Get rid of the foreign gods that you have with you, purify yourselves, and put on fresh clothes. 3 We're going to move on and go up to Beit-El. There I will build an altar to G_d, who answered me when I was in such distress and stayed with me wherever I went." Genesis 35:4 They gave Ya`akov all the foreign gods in their possession and the earrings they were wearing, and Ya`akov buried them under the pistachio tree near Sh'khem. 5 While they were traveling, a terror from G_d fell upon the cities around them, so that none of them pursued the sons of Ya`akov.Genesis 35:6 Ya`akov and all the people with him arrived at Luz (that is, Beit-El) in the land of Kena`an. 7 He built there an altar and called the place El-Beit-El [G_d of Beit-El], because it was there that G_d was revealed to him, at the time when he was fleeing from his brother.Genesis 35:8 Then D'vorah, Rivkah's nurse, died. She was buried below Beit-El under the oak, which was given the name Alon-Bakhut [oak of weeping].Genesis 35:9 After Ya`akov arrived from Paddan-Aram, G_d appeared to him again and blessed him. 10 G_d said to him, "Your name is Ya`akov, but you will be called Ya`akov no longer; your name will be Isra'el." Thus he named him Isra'el. 11 G_d further said to him, "I am El Shaddai. Be fruitful and multiply. A nation, indeed a group of nations, will come from you; kings will be descended from you. Genesis 35:12 Moreover, the land which I gave to Avraham and Yitz'chak I will give to you, and I will give the land to your descendants after you." 13 Then G_d went up from him there where he had spoken with him. Genesis 35:14 Ya`akov set up a standing-stone in the place where he had spoken with him, a stone pillar. Then he poured out a drink offering on it and poured oil on it. 15 Ya`akov called the place where G_d spoke with him Beit-El.Genesis 35:16 Then they traveled on from Beit-El, and while there was still some distance to go before arriving in Efrat, Rachel went into labor, and she had great difficulty with it. 17 While she was undergoing this hard labor, the midwife said to her, "Don't worry, this is also a son for you." 18 But she died in childbirth. As she was dying she named her son Ben-Oni [son of my grief], but his father called him Binyamin [son of the right hand, son of the south]. 19 So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Efrat (that is, Beit-Lechem). 20 Ya`akov set up a standing-stone on her grave; it is the standing-stone of Rachel's grave to this day.Genesis 35:21 Isra'el continued his travels and pitched his tent on the other side of Migdal-`Eder. 22 It was while Isra'el was living in that land that Re'uven went and slept with Bilhah his father's concubine, and Isra'el heard about it. Ya`akov had twelve sons. 23 The sons of Le'ah were Re'uven Ya`akov's firstborn, Shim`on, Levi, Y'hudah, Yissakhar and Z'vulun. 24 The sons of Rachel were Yosef and Binyamin. 25 The sons of Bilhah Rachel's slave-girl were Dan and Naftali. 26 And the sons of Zilpah Le'ah's slave-girl were Gad and Asher. These were Ya`akov's sons, born to him in Paddan-Aram.Genesis 35:27 Ya`akov came home to his father Yitz'chak at Mamre, near Kiryat-Arba (also known as Hevron), where Avraham and Yitz'chak had lived as foreigners. 28 Yitz'chak lived to be 180 years old. 29 Then he breathed his last, died and was gathered to his people, an old man full of years; and his sons `Esav and Ya`akov buried him.DOGE and DOSE?Department of Spiritual Efficacy!https://unsplash.com/@stigson - Jordan Valleyhttps://unsplash.com/@robertina - Anointing oilhttps://unsplash.com/@fadid000 - Heart

Jacob arrives in Paddan Aram.

Wrestling with simping - Being Accountable to AdonaiWebsite: http://www.battle4freedom.com/Network: https://www.mojo50.comStreaming: https://www.rumble.com/Battle4Freedomhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2016%3A13&version=CJB1 Corinthians 16:13Stay alert, stand firm in the faith, behave like a mentsh, grow strong.Genesis 32:14 (13) He stayed there that night; then he chose from among his possessions the following as a present for `Esav his brother: 15 (14) two hundred female goats and twenty males, two hundred female sheep and twenty males, 16 (15) thirty milk-camels and their colts, forty cows and ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten colts. 17 (16) He turned them over to his servants, every drove by itself, and said to his servants, "Cross over in front of me, and keep a space between each drove and the next one." Genesis 32:18 (17) He instructed the servant in front, "When `Esav my brother meets you and asks you, `Whose servant are you? Where are you going? And whose animals are these?' 19 (18) then you are to say, `They belong to your servant Ya`akov, and they are a present he has sent to my lord `Esav; and Ya`akov himself is just behind us.'" Genesis 32:20 (19) He also instructed the second servant, and the third, and all that followed the droves, "When you encounter `Esav, you are to speak to him in the same way, 21 (20) and you are to add, `And there, just behind us, is your servant Ya`akov.'" For he said, "I will appease him first with the present that goes ahead of me; then, after that, I will see him myself — and maybe he will be friendly toward me." 22 (21) So the present crossed over ahead of him, and he himself stayed that night in the camp.Genesis 32:23 (22) He got up that night, took his two wives, his two slave-girls, and his eleven children, and forded the Yabok. 24 (23) He took them and sent them across the stream, then sent his possessions across; 25 (24) and Ya`akov was left alone. Then some man wrestled with him until daybreak. 26 (25) When he saw that he did not defeat Ya`akov, he struck Ya`akov's hip socket, so that his hip was dislocated while wrestling with him. 27 (26) The man said, "Let me go, because it's daybreak." But Ya`akov replied, "I won't let you go unless you bless me." 28 (27) The man asked, "What is your name?" and he answered, "Ya`akov." 29 (28) Then the man said, "From now on, you will no longer be called Ya`akov, but Isra'el; because you have shown your strength to both G_d and men and have prevailed." 30 (29) Ya`akov asked him, "Please tell me your name." But he answered, "Why are you asking about my name?" and blessed him there.Genesis 32:31 (30) Ya`akov called the place P'ni-El [face of G_d], "Because I have seen G_d face to face, yet my life is spared." 32 (31) As the sun rose upon him he went on past P'ni-El, limping at the hip. 33 (32) This is why, to this day, the people of Isra'el do not eat the thigh muscle that passes along the hip socket — because the man struck Ya`akov's hip at its socket.Genesis 33:1 Ya`akov raised his eyes and looked out; and there was `Esav coming, and four hundred men with him. So Ya`akov divided the children between Le'ah, Rachel and the two slave-girls, 2 putting the slave-girls and their children first, Le'ah and her children second, and Rachel and Yosef last. 3 Then he himself passed on ahead of them and prostrated himself on the ground seven times before approaching his brother. Genesis 33:4 `Esav ran to meet him, hugged him, threw his arms around his neck and kissed him; and they wept. 5 Esav looked up; on seeing the women and children, he asked, "Who are these with you?" Ya`akov answered, "The children G_d has graciously given to your servant."Genesis 33:6 Then the slave-girls approached with their children, and they prostrated themselves; 7 Le'ah too and her children approached and prostrated themselves; and last came Yosef and Rachel; and they prostrated themselves. 8 `Esav asked, "What was the meaning of this procession of droves I encountered?" and he answered, "It was to win my lord's favor." 9 `Esav replied, "I have plenty already; my brother, keep your possessions for yourself." Genesis 33:10 Ya`akov said, "No, please! If now I have won your favor, then accept my gift. Just seeing your face has been like seeing the face of G_d, now that you have received me. 11 So please accept the gift I have brought you, for G_d has dealt kindly with me and I have enough." Thus he urged him, until he accepted it.Genesis 33:12 `Esav said, "Let's break camp and get going. I'll go first." 13 Ya`akov said to him, "My lord knows that the children are small, and the sheep and cattle suckling their young concern me, because if they overdrive them even one day, all the flocks will die. 14 Instead, please, let my lord go on ahead of his servant. I will travel more slowly, at the pace of the cattle ahead of me and at the pace of the children, until I come to my lord in Se`ir." Genesis 33:15 `Esav replied, "Then let me leave with you some of the people I have with me." But Ya`akov said, "There's no need for my lord to be so kind to me." 16 So `Esav left that day to return to Se`ir. 17 Ya`akov went on to Sukkot, where he built himself a house and put up shelters for his cattle. This is why the place is called Sukkot [shelters].Genesis 33:18 Having traveled from Paddan-Aram, Ya`akov arrived safely at the city of Sh'khem, in Kena`an, and set up camp near the city. 19 From the sons of Hamor Sh'khem's father he bought for one hundred pieces of silver the parcel of land where he had pitched his tent. 20 There he put up an altar, which he called El-Elohei-Yisra'el [G_d, the G_d of Isra'el].Credit to:https://www.pexels.com/@clickerhappy/ (Wrestling photo)

Living in the multiverse - Sin is Cognitive DissonanceWebsite: http://www.battle4freedom.com/Network: https://www.mojo50.comStreaming: https://www.rumble.com/Battle4Freedomhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201%3A23-24&version=CJBJames 1:23-24For whoever hears the Word but doesn't do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror, who looks at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.Genesis 31:1 But then he heard what Lavan's sons were saying: "Ya'akov has taken away everything that our father once had. It's from what used to belong to our father that he has gotten so rich." 2 He also saw that Lavan regarded him differently than before. 3 Adonai said to Ya'akov, "Return to the land of your ancestors, to your kinsmen; I will be with you." Genesis 31:4 So Ya'akov sent for Rachel and Le'ah and had them come to the field where his flock was. 5 He said to them, "I see by the way your father looks that he feels differently toward me than before; but the God of my father has been with me. 6 You know that I have served your father with all my strength, 7 and that your father has belittled me and has changed my wages ten times; but God did not allow him to do me any damage. Genesis 31:8 If he said, 'The speckled will be your wages,' then all the animals gave birth to speckled young; and if he said, 'The streaked will be your wages,' then all the animals gave birth to streaked young. 9 This is how God has taken away your father's animals and given them to me. 10 Once, when the animals were mating, I had a dream: I looked up and there in front of me the male goats which mated with the females were streaked, speckled and mottled. Genesis 31:11 Then, in the dream, the angel of God said to me, 'Ya'akov!' and I replied, 'Here I am.' 12 He continued, 'Raise your eyes now, and look: all the male goats mating with the females are streaked, speckled and mottled; for I have seen everything Lavan has been doing to you. 13 I am the God of Beit-El, where you anointed a standing-stone with oil, where you vowed your vow to me. Now get up, get out of this land, and return to the land where you were born.'" Genesis 31:14 Rachel and Le'ah answered him, "We no longer have any inheritance from our father's possessions; 15 and he considers us foreigners, since he has sold us; moreover, he has consumed everything he received in exchange for us. 16 Nevertheless, the wealth which God has taken away from our father has become ours and our children's anyway; so whatever God has told you to do, do."Genesis 31:17 Then Ya'akov got up, put his sons and wives on the camels, 18 and carried off all his livestock, along with all the riches he had accumulated, the livestock in his possession which he had acquired in Paddan-Aram, to go to Yitz'chak his father in the land of Kena'an.Genesis 31:19 Now Lavan had gone to shear his sheep, so Rachel stole the household idols that belonged to her father, 20 and Ya'akov outwitted Lavan the Arami by not telling him of his intended flight. 21 So he fled with everything he had: he departed, crossed the [Euphrates] River and set out for the hill-country of Gil'ad. 22 Not until the third day was Lavan told that Ya'akov had fled.Genesis 31:23 Lavan took his kinsmen with him and spent the next seven days pursuing Ya'akov, overtaking him in the hill-country of Gil'ad. 24 But God came to Lavan the Arami in a dream that night and said to him, "Be careful that you don't say anything to Ya'akov, either good or bad."Genesis 31:25 When Lavan caught up with Ya'akov, Ya'akov had set up camp in the hill-country; so Lavan and his kinsmen set up camp in the hill-country of Gil'ad. 26 Lavan said to Ya'akov, "What do you mean by deceiving me and carrying off my daughters as if they were captives taken in war? 27 Why did you flee in secret and deceive me and not tell me? I would have sent you off with joy and singing to the music of tambourines and lyres. 28 You didn't even let me kiss my sons and daughters good-bye! What a stupid thing to do! Genesis 31:29 I have it in my power to do you harm; but the God of your father spoke to me last night and said, 'Be careful that you don't say anything to Ya'akov, either good or bad.' 30 Granted that you had to leave, because you longed so deeply for your father's house; but why did you steal my gods?" 31 Ya'akov answered Lavan, "Because I was afraid. I said, 'Suppose you take your daughters away from me by force?' 32 But if you find your gods with someone, that person will not remain alive. So with our kinsmen to witness, if you spot anything that I have which belongs to you, take it back." Ya'akov did not know that Rachel had stolen them. 33 Lavan went into Ya'akov's tent, then into Le'ah's tent and into the tent of the two slave-girls; but he did not find them. He left Le'ah's tent and entered Rachel's tent. 34 Now Rachel had taken the household gods, put them in the saddle of the camel and was sitting on them. Lavan felt all around the tent but did not find them. 35 She said to her father, "Please don't be angry that I'm not getting up in your presence, but it's the time of my period." So he searched, but he didn't find the household gods.

In this Bible Story, Jacob is affirmed by the Lord that he would be blessed as his father Isaac was. Upon arrival, Jacob met Rachel, and immediately fell in love. Jacob is tricked into marrying Laban’s older daughter, Leah, before marrying Rachel. This story is inspired by Genesis 28:1-29:29. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Genesis 29:10 from the King James Version.Episode 20: In fear for his life, Jacob flees from his brother by going to the home country of his mother. On the way there, he has a vision from God in which He reaffirms the promise He made to his grandfather Abraham. When Jacob finally arrives in Paddan-Aram, he meets Rachel and immediately falls in love with her.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jakob, was nun? Auf dem Weg nach Paddan-Aram hat Jakob in Bethel einen Traum, in dem er eine Himmelsleiter sieht, die die Erde mit dem Himmel verbindet. Engel steigen darauf auf und ab, und Gott erscheint ihm, um den Bund zu erneuern, den er mit Abraham und Isaak geschlossen hat. Doch Jakob versucht, mit Gott zu verhandeln? Das bringt ihn für eine sehr lange Zeit in die Schule Gottes. 

Deze week vraagt parasha Wajetse weer onze aandacht. Deze parasha omvat de uitlandigheid van Jakob als hij vlucht voor zijn broer Ezau. Op aangeven van zijn moeder trekt hij uit Kanaän naar zijn oom Laban in Charan. Aan het einde van de parasha keert hij terug en staat hij aan de grens van Kanaän. Zo is de ballingschap van Jakob.  Jakob gaat van Bethel naar Pniël. Van het Godshuis naar het aangezicht van God. In Bethel gaat de zon onder en gaat hij het land uit. In Pniël komt de zon weer op en komt Jakob het land weer in. Hij gaat van Beër-sheva, de zeven bronnen, naar Charan, bergbeklimmer. Van de bronnen in de laagte naar de bergen in het veld van Aram. Paddan-Aram staat er, en een mogelijk vertaling daarvan is een verhoogde losprijs of een ultieme upgrade. Je zou kunnen zeggen dat Jakob in de ballingschap zowel een losprijs betaalde als ook met zijn komst zorgde voor een daadwerkelijke vervulling van de wereld. En waarvoor of voor wie betaalde Jakob een losprijs? Wel, dat waren zijn vrouwen en kinderen. En hoe droeg hij bij aan de daadwerkelijke ultieme vervulling van de wereld? Dat waren zijn kudden.  Support the show

The Sons of Avraham - Designated or DisinheritedWebsite: http://www.battle4freedom.com/Network: https://www.mojo50.comStreaming: https://www.rumble.com/Battle4Freedomhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2037%3A29&version=CJBPsalm 37:29The righteous will inherit the land and live in it foreverGenesis 25https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=genesis%2025&version=CJBGenesis 25:1-4Avraham took another wife, whose name was K'turah. She bore him Zimran, Yokshan, Medan, Midyan, Yishbak; and Shuach. Yokshan fathered Sh'va and D'dan. The sons of D'dan were Ashurim, L'tushim and L'umim. The sons of Midyan were 'Eifah, 'Efer, Hanokh, Avida and Elda'ah. All these were descendants of K'turah.Genesis 25:5-6Avraham gave everything he owned to Yitz'chak. But to the sons of the concubines he made grants while he was still living and sent them off to the east, to the land of Kedem, away from Yitz'chak his son.Genesis 25:7-11This is how long Avraham lived: 175 years. Then Avraham breathed his last, dying at a ripe old age, an old man full of years; and he was gathered to his people. Yitz'chak and Yishma'el his sons buried him in the cave of Makhpelah, in the field of 'Efron the son of Tzochar the Hitti, by Mamre, the field which Avraham purchased from the sons of Het. Avraham was buried there with Sarah his wife. After Avraham died, G_d blessed Yitz'chak his son, and Yitz'chak lived near Be'er-Lachai-Ro'i.Genesis 25:12-18Here is the genealogy of Yishma'el, Avraham's son, whom Hagar the Egyptian woman bore to Avraham. These are the names of the sons of Yishma'el, listed in the order of their birth. The firstborn of Yishma'el was N'vayot; followed by Kedar, Adbe'el, Mivsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Teima, Y'tur, Nafish and Kedmah. (Maftir) These are the sons of Yishma'el, and these are their names, according to their settlements and camps, twelve tribal rulers. This is how long Yishma'el lived: 137 years. Then he breathed his last, died and was gathered to his people. Yishma'el's sons lived between Havilah and Shur, near Egypt as you go toward Ashur; he settled near all his kinsmen.Why do we treat Ishmael like Cain?Genesis 25:19-23Here is the history of Yitz'chak, Avraham's son. Avraham fathered Yitz'chak. Yitz'chak was forty years old when he took Rivkah, the daughter of B'tu'el the Arami from Paddan-Aram and sister of Lavan the Arami, to be his wife. Yitz'chak prayed to Adonai on behalf of his wife, because she was childless. Adonai heeded his prayer, and Rivkah became pregnant. The children fought with each other inside her so much that she said, "If it's going to be like this, why go on living?" So she went to inquire of Adonai, who answered her, "There are two nations in your womb. From birth they will be two rival peoples. One of these peoples will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger."Genesis 25:24-26When the time for her delivery came, there were twins in her womb. The first to come out was reddish and covered all over with hair, like a coat; so they named him 'Esav [completely formed, that is, having hair already]. Then his brother emerged, with his hand holding 'Esav's heel, so he was called Ya'akov [he catches by the heel, he supplants]. Yitz'chak was sixty years old when she bore them.Genesis 25:27-28The boys grew; and 'Esav became a skillful hunter, an outdoorsman; while Ya'akov was a quiet man who stayed in the tents. Yitz'chak favored 'Esav, because he had a taste for game; Rivkah favored Ya'akov.Genesis 25:29-34One day when Ya'akov had cooked some stew, 'Esav came in from the open country, exhausted, and said to Ya'akov, "Please! Let me gulp down some of that red stuff — that red stuff! I'm exhausted!" (This is why he was called Edom [red].) Ya'akov answered, "First sell me your rights as the firstborn." "Look, I'm about to die!" said 'Esav. "What use to me are my rights as the firstborn?" Ya'akov said, "First, swear to me!" So he swore to him, thus selling his birthright to Ya'akov. Then Ya'akov gave him bread and lentil stew; he ate and drank, got up and went on his way. Thus 'Esav showed how little he valued his birthright.

Sunday 10th November 2024 - West and North Sites   Speaker - Alice Meads Alice continues our study of the life of Jacob with a look at his reconciliation with his twin, Esau. -------- Genesis 33 v 1-18 1) Jacob looked up and there was Esau, coming with his four hundred men; so he divided the children among Leah, Rachel and the two female servants. 2)  He put the female servants and their children in front, Leah and her children next, and Rachel and Joseph in the rear. 3)  He himself went on ahead and bowed down to the ground seven times as he approached his brother. 4)  But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept. 5)  Then Esau looked up and saw the women and children. ‘Who are these with you?' he asked. Jacob answered, ‘They are the children God has graciously given your servant.' 6)  Then the female servants and their children approached and bowed down. 7)  Next, Leah and her children came and bowed down. Last of all came Joseph and Rachel, and they too bowed down. 8)  Esau asked, ‘What's the meaning of all these flocks and herds I met?' ‘To find favour in your eyes, my lord,' he said. 9)  But Esau said, ‘I already have plenty, my brother. Keep what you have for yourself.' 10)  ‘No, please!' said Jacob. ‘If I have found favour in your eyes, accept this gift from me. For to see your face is like seeing the face of God, now that you have received me favourably. 11)  Please accept the present that was brought to you, for God has been gracious to me and I have all I need.' And because Jacob insisted, Esau accepted it. 12)  Then Esau said, ‘Let us be on our way; I'll accompany you.' 13)  But Jacob said to him, ‘My lord knows that the children are tender and that I must care for the ewes and cows that are nursing their young. If they are driven hard just one day, all the animals will die. 14)  So let my lord go on ahead of his servant, while I move along slowly at the pace of the flocks and herds before me and the pace of the children, until I come to my lord in Seir.' 15)  Esau said, ‘Then let me leave some of my men with you.' ‘But why do that?' Jacob asked. ‘Just let me find favour in the eyes of my lord.' 16)  So that day Esau started on his way back to Seir. 17)  Jacob, however, went to Sukkoth, where he built a place for himself and made shelters for his livestock. That is why the place is called Sukkoth. 18)  After Jacob came from Paddan Aram, he arrived safely at the city of Shechem in Canaan and camped within sight of the city. Recorded at West site - 10Nov2024

Genesis 28 is a pivotal chapter in the book of Genesis, filled with themes of divine promise, guidance, and personal transformation. It narrates key events in the life of Jacob, one of the patriarchs of Israel, and lays the groundwork for his covenant relationship with God. Key Events in Genesis 28: 1.Isaac Blesses Jacob and Sends Him Away Isaac, recognizing God's plan for Jacob, blesses him again and instructs him to leave Canaan to avoid marrying a Canaanite woman, as Esau had done. Instead, Jacob is directed to go to Paddan-Aram to find a wife among his relatives, specifically the daughters of Laban, Rebekah's brother. This act not only ensures the purity of the lineage but also emphasizes the importance of obeying God's covenantal principles. 2.Esau's Reaction Observing that his marriage choices displeased his parents, Esau attempts to rectify the situation by marrying a daughter of Ishmael, Abraham's other son. This action, however, is misguided, as it further demonstrates Esau's inability to align with God's covenantal purposes. 3.Jacob's Journey and Dream at Bethel While traveling to Paddan-Aram, Jacob stops to rest at a place that will later be called Bethel. Using a stone as a pillow, he has a remarkable dream in which he sees a ladder or stairway reaching to heaven, with angels ascending and descending on it. At the top of the ladder, the Lord appears and reiterates the covenant made with Abraham and Isaac, promising Jacob land, descendants as numerous as the dust of the earth, and the extension of blessings to all nations through his offspring. 4.God's Promises to Jacob In the dream, God assures Jacob of His presence, protection, and provision, saying, “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land.” This promise underscores God's faithfulness and sets the stage for Jacob's transformation into a patriarch. 5.Jacob's Response Upon waking, Jacob recognizes the significance of the place, exclaiming, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” He names the site Bethel (House of God) and sets up the stone he used as a pillow as a pillar to mark the spot. Jacob then makes a vow, pledging that if God fulfills His promises, Jacob will dedicate himself fully to the Lord, including giving a tenth of all he receives. Themes and Lessons: 1.God's Faithfulness and Covenant The chapter highlights God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Abraham's descendants, ensuring that His promises continue through Jacob. 2.Transformation through Encounter Jacob's encounter with God at Bethel marks the beginning of his spiritual awakening. Though initially self-serving in his vow, it reflects his growing recognition of God's sovereignty. 3.God's Presence in Transition Jacob's journey symbolizes a time of uncertainty and transition. God's assurance reminds readers that divine presence and guidance are constant, even in unfamiliar and challenging circumstances. 4.The Significance of Bethel Bethel becomes a sacred space, a physical reminder of God's presence and faithfulness. It underscores the importance of recognizing and commemorating spiritual milestones. 5.Faith in Action Jacob's vow demonstrates that faith involves not just belief but also commitment and response to God's promises. Conclusion: Genesis 28 is a turning point in Jacob's life and in the biblical narrative of God's covenant. It reveals how God meets individuals where they are, offering guidance and blessings even in moments of uncertainty. The chapter invites readers to trust in God's promises, remain faithful during transitions, and recognize His presence in their lives.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Title: Be Fruitful and Multiply: Discipleship Through the Generations of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph Series: Be Fruitful & Multiply   Speakers: Pastor Josh & Minister Dave Introduction: Discipleship begins with being disciples ourselves and then discipling those in our household. The Lord desires to save households; godly families are the strength of a community. Satan, therefore, wants to destroy the family. It is how we weaken communities and take ground so he can hinder the work of God. The story of Abraham, Issac, Jacob, and Joseph is about the generational effect of family, the passing on of faith from one generation to the next. 1. Abraham: The Foundation of Faith and God's Covenant Key Scriptures: Genesis 12:1-3 "The Lord had said to Abram, 'Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father's family, and go to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.'" Genesis 22:16-18 - This is what the Lord says: Because you have obeyed me and have not withheld even your son, your only son, I swear by my own name that  I will certainly bless you. I will multiply your descendants beyond number, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will conquer the cities of their enemies. And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed—all because you have obeyed me.” Discipleship Lesson: Abraham is often called the "father of faith" because his relationship with God was built on absolute trust and obedience. Despite not immediately seeing the fulfillment of God's promises, he faithfully followed God's direction. Abraham's story reveals that a foundational aspect of discipleship is faith in action—he heard God's Word, believed it, and obeyed. Romans 10:17 reminds us that "faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the Word of Christ." Abraham's example teaches us that the greatest gift we can pass to others, especially our families, is a legacy of faith. However, faith is not passive. It requires both listening and responding. Abraham's willingness to leave everything behind, even without knowing where God was leading him, demonstrates his heart posture toward God. For us, this means our hearing is intertwined with the condition of our hearts. If we aren't hearing from God, we must examine whether unconfessed sin, bitterness, or unforgiveness hinders us. Hebrews 8:10 reminds us that God's Word is written in our hearts. If our hearts are correct, we will feel convicted when we stray from God's path. Abraham's life also shows us the importance of perseverance in discipleship. God's promises to Abraham were not fulfilled immediately, yet he continued to walk with God through trials and uncertainties. Even when Abraham acted on impulse and created Ishmael, which led to difficult consequences, he remained faithful and did not give up on God's promise. This teaches us that even in our mistakes, faith involves returning to trust in God's plans. A powerful example of Abraham's faith came when he was tested with Isaac, his promised son. Despite the unimaginable difficulty of the situation, Abraham trusted God to provide a solution—even in the face of sacrificing his son. His obedience to God at that moment demonstrated a depth of faith that transcended his understanding, and God, faithful to His nature, provided a ram in place of Isaac. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice that God Himself would provide through Jesus Christ. Today, we who walk by faith are the fulfillment of the promise God made to Abraham—we are the stars in the sky that were foreshadowed in Genesis, a living testament to the legacy of Abraham's faith and obedience. Application: As disciples, we must cultivate a heart that listens and responds to God, ensuring our relationship with Him remains clear and unburdened by sin or unforgiveness. Like Abraham, we are called to not only receive God's blessings but to pass them on, especially to those we lead—whether in our families or communities. Through patience, perseverance, and unwavering trust, we can reflect Abraham's legacy and disciple others by sharing our faith daily. 2. Isaac: Inheriting and Continuing the Legacy Key Scriptures: Genesis 26:2-5 - The Lord appeared to Isaac and said, “Do not go down to Egypt, but do as I tell you. Live here as a foreigner in this land, and I will be with you and bless you. I hereby confirm that I will give all these lands to you and your descendants,[a] just as I solemnly promised Abraham, your father.  I will cause your descendants to become as numerous as the stars of the sky, and I will give them all these lands. And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed. 5 I will do this because Abraham listened to me and obeyed all my requirements, commands, decrees, and instructions.” Genesis 26:23-25 - 23 From there Isaac moved to Beersheba, 24 where the Lord appeared to him on the night of his arrival. “I am the God of your father, Abraham,” he said. “Do not be afraid, for I am with you and will bless you. I will multiply your descendants, and they will become a great nation. I will do this because of my promise to Abraham, my servant.” 25 Then Isaac built an altar there and worshiped the Lord. He set up his camp at that place, and his servants dug another well. Discipleship Lesson: Isaac inherited the promises given to Abraham, but those promises required him to establish his relationship with God. Just as no one can inherit their parents' faith, we must invite Jesus Christ into our hearts. Isaac's act of re-digging his father's wells (Genesis 26:18) symbolizes the discipleship journey: it teaches us that we must uphold and maintain the truths passed down to us while also making faith personal and alive in our lives. When the Lord spoke to Isaac, He reiterated the importance of obedience: "Do what I tell you" (Genesis 26:2-5). This is the essence of following Jesus—hearing His voice and obeying His commands, not our desires. As we disciple others, we must remember that our role is not to mold people into our image but to point them to Christ. Jesus will form them according to His will, shaping them into His likeness. Discipleship isn't about creating clones of ourselves; it's about leading people to Christ so they can encounter Him personally and be transformed. God's promises are multi-generational. Some promises made to previous generations may find fulfillment through us, while others will be fulfilled in future generations. Isaac's journey shows that inheriting God's blessing requires personal faith, obedience, and a willingness to follow the example. Isaac had to walk in the exact obedience as Abraham to receive the fullness of God's blessing. Isaac also had a personal encounter with God, and from that encounter, he built an altar to worship the Lord and established a well there (Genesis 26:25). This demonstrates a vital truth: we must seek our encounter with God. Until we know Him intimately, our worship will remain superficial. True worship springs from a personal relationship with God, rooted in a deep spiritual connection. The greatest gift we can offer others is not from our resources but from the deeper places we've encountered in the Lord. Jesus speaks of "living water" that flows from within (John 7:38), and as disciples, we are called to pass on that living water—truth and life that come from our relationship with God. Application:
In discipling others, we must encourage them to build their relationship with God. Like Isaac, they must "dig their wells" while upholding the foundational truths of their faith. Our role is to guide them to the source of living water—Jesus—so they can draw from Him and pass on that life to others. Only through a personal, living encounter with God can they grow in their faith and fulfill God's promises. Challenge Question: How are you maintaining and sharing the spiritual legacy entrusted to you? 3. Jacob: Transformation and the Multiplication of a Nation Key Scriptures:
Genesis 28:13-15
"At the top of the stairway stood the Lord, and He said, 'I am the Lord, the God of your grandfather Abraham, and the God of your father, Isaac. The ground you are lying on belongs to you. I am giving it to you and your descendants. Your descendants will be as numerous as the dust of the earth! They will spread out in all directions—to the west and the east, north and the south. And all the families of the earth will be blessed through you and your descendants. What's more, I am with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. One day, I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have finished giving you everything I have promised you.'" Genesis 35:9-12
"Now that Jacob had returned from Paddan-Aram, God appeared to him again at Bethel. God blessed him, saying, 'Your name is Jacob, but you will no longer be called Jacob. From now on, your name will be Israel.' So God renamed him Israel. Then God said, 'I am El-Shaddai—God Almighty. Be fruitful and multiply. You will become a great nation, even many nations. Kings will be among your descendants! And I will give you the land I once gave Abraham and Isaac. Yes, I will give it to you and your descendants after you.'" Discipleship Lesson:
Jacob's life illustrates a profound transformation journey—from a deceiver into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. His story shows us that our flaws do not deter God; He specializes in transforming brokenness into a blessing. Just as Jacob was transformed, we were once deceived, and even deceivers, our lives have been radically changed through God's grace. Our transformation is living proof of God's power and faithfulness. In Christ, we become brand new creations; "the old has passed away, behold, all things have become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17). As disciple-makers, our calling is to help others shed the labels of their past and embrace their true identity in Christ. Discipleship isn't just about learning biblical facts—it's about knowing God intimately and experiencing His transforming power firsthand. It's one thing to know the Word of God but another to know the God of the Word. Jacob's transformation into Israel didn't come through head knowledge alone but through a life-changing encounter with God. The name "Paddan-Aram," where Jacob wrestled with God, means "face-to-face," symbolizing that discipleship requires an intimate, ongoing relationship with the Lord. Like Jacob, we must encounter God personally to be changed from the inside out. Christianity without a relationship is no different from works-based religions; it's our relationship with the living God that sets us apart. God moves powerfully on earth through those who walk with Him. As Jacob's name was changed to Israel, signifying a new identity and purpose, our lives are transformed as we walk closely with God. The Lord works through us, not just to change our own lives but to impact the world around us. True discipleship is about walking daily with God, allowing His presence to flow through us and multiply His blessings into the lives of others. Application:
Just as Jacob had to confront his past and wrestle with God to embrace his new identity, we must do the same in our spiritual journey. As we disciple others, we aim to guide them toward knowing God deeply and personally, helping them embrace their new identity in Christ. When people experience the reality of God for themselves, their lives are transformed, and they, like Jacob, can become a blessing to nations. Challenge Question: How can you encourage others through the transformation process in their spiritual journey? 4. Joseph: Multiplication Through Influence and Suffering Key Scriptures:
Genesis 45:4-8 - “Please, come closer," Joseph said to his brothers. So they came closer. And he said again, "I am Joseph, your brother, whom you sold into slavery in Egypt. But don't be upset, and don't be angry with yourselves for selling me to this place. God sent me here ahead of you to preserve your lives. This famine that has ravaged the land for two years will last five more years, and there will be neither plowing nor harvesting. God has sent me ahead of you to keep you and your families alive and to preserve many survivors. So it was God who sent me here, not you! And He is the one who made me an adviser to Pharaoh—the manager of his entire palace and the governor of all Egypt." Genesis 50:19-21: "But Joseph replied, 'Don't be afraid of me. Am I God that I can punish you? You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save many people's lives. No, don't be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.' So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them." Discipleship Lesson:
Joseph's life is a powerful example of God's use of suffering to accomplish His greater purposes. He is favored by his father but despised by his brothers. Joseph's journey from being sold into slavery to becoming the second most powerful man in Egypt is a testament to God's sovereignty. Even as Joseph endured betrayal, slavery, false accusations, and imprisonment, Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that "the Lord was with him." Despite his circumstances, Joseph found favor wherever he went—whether as Potiphar's servant, the head of a prison, or ultimately as the governor of Egypt. Joseph's life reminds us that God works for our good, even in the darkest moments. While Joseph's early dreams of greatness seemed far removed from his trials, God was weaving together a larger plan. Joseph's trials became the path that led to the fulfillment of his dreams and, more importantly, to the preservation of his family and the nation during a famine. Joseph's story also highlights the power of forgiveness. He could have harbored bitterness toward his brothers for their betrayal, but instead, he chose to see God's hand in his suffering. He acknowledged that though his brothers intended to harm, God used it for good to save many lives. Joseph's ability to forgive and see the bigger picture enabled him to reconcile with his family and extend grace and provision to them in their time of need. As disciple-makers, we learn from Joseph that our trials are not wasted. Through faithfulness in suffering, we can influence others, as Joseph did—multiplying God's grace, wisdom, and provision beyond our reach. Joseph's influence was not confined to his family; it extended to an entire nation, and his faithfulness in hardship testified to God's faithfulness and power. Application:
Sometimes, discipleship requires enduring hardship with faith and integrity, just as Joseph did. God often uses our most difficult seasons to shape us, not only for our personal growth but for the multiplication of His kingdom. Through perseverance, Joseph's influence grew beyond his immediate family to impact an entire nation. In the same way, our faithfulness in trials can have a ripple effect, influencing and discipling others through our example of trust in God. Challenge Question:
How can your faithfulness in trials disciple and influence others for God's kingdom? Conclusion: Fruitfulness in Discipleship Across Generations * The lives of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph show a pattern of discipleship through faithfulness, transformation, and influence. Each generation multiplied the impact of God's promise through their relationships and encounters with God. * Final Reflection: How can we be intentional about discipling others in a way that multiplies God's influence across generations? -- Praise Tabernacle Dr. Joshua Kennedy,  Pastor 2235 Ocean Heights  Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com praisetabernacle.church  (609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)

Sermon Summary: The School of Hard Knocks Sermon Text: Genesis 29 Sermon Summary: In today's sermon, Nick delves into the challenging narrative of Jacob's journey in Genesis 29. He explores the themes of deception, blessing, and the unexpected twists and turns life can take. The sermon begins by recounting Jacob's deceitful act of stealing his brother Esau's blessing. This deception leads to Jacob's flight from his home and his subsequent journey to Paddan Aram. As Jacob arrives at Paddan Aram, he encounters Rachel, Laban's daughter, and falls in love with her. He agrees to work for Laban for seven years in exchange for Rachel's hand in marriage. However, on his wedding night, Jacob is tricked by Laban and married to Leah, Rachel's older sister. Despite this setback, Jacob continues to work for Laban, eventually marrying Rachel as well. The sermon highlights the contrast between Jacob's love for Rachel and his indifference towards Leah. Nick then shifts the focus to the concept of "the school of hard knocks." He suggests that Jacob's experiences, filled with challenges and disappointments, are a form of spiritual training. The blessing that Jacob received from his father, while significant, did not guarantee a smooth and easy life. Instead, it set him on a path of discovery and growth. The sermon emphasizes that the blessings in our lives may not always manifest in the ways we expect. It's through the challenges and hardships we face that we truly learn and grow as individuals. Nick encourages the congregation to view their own struggles as opportunities for spiritual development, rather than as setbacks. The sermon also highlights the importance of perseverance and trust in God. Even in the face of adversity, Jacob's faith in God remained steadfast. His story serves as a reminder that God's plans for our lives are often greater than our own. Bible References: Genesis 29 Key Themes: Deception and its consequences The nature of blessings and their unexpected manifestations The concept of "the school of hard knocks" Perseverance and trust in God The importance of spiritual growth through challenges The unseen blessings and purposes within life's hardships Conclusion: The sermon concludes by encouraging the congregation to embrace their own "school of hard knocks" as a path towards spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. It reminds them that even in the midst of challenges, God's love and faithfulness remain steadfast. Transcript We're on Genesis 29, by the way, racing through. We are in the middle of coming into a collection of passages that are challenging, to say the least. I knew someone some years ago who, they went to prison, actually, and while they were in prison, they didn't have anything to read, so they decided to read the Bible. It was the first time that they'd really engaged with the Bible, and so they read it over and over and over again. And he got really fascinated by these passages in Genesis, and he said, well, and his honest assessment of it was, it's like Coronation Street. So much going on, and so many things that you think, well, what's going on there? You couldn't write this stuff, do you know what I mean? But obviously somebody has. But my title this morning is The School of Hard Knocks, and we're dealing with Jacob, who has stolen the blessing, if you like, or taken an opportunity to get a blessing that wasn't actually rightfully his, and yet he conspired with his mother to get that blessing from his father, and then as a result, as we've heard over the weeks, has had to flee away from his brother, who wants to kill him for what he's done. And so he's on this long, hard journey that has been reflected many times, doesn't actually look like the blessing he was expecting. This is challenging stuff. And so, in Genesis 29, we've got Jacob arriving at Paddan Aram, and I'm going to read it, we've got a little bit of time, I'm going to read it, because I know we can do a synopsis and we can, but unless we actually read it in the Scripture, we don't always grasp what we're talking about. I could start talking about something and think, where did he get that from? So it's good that we root what we say in the actual passage. So then Jacob hurried on, finally arriving in the land of the east. He saw a well in the distance. Three flocks of sheep and goats lay in an open field beside it, waiting to be watered, but a heavy stone covered the mouth of the well. It was the custom there to wait for all the flocks to arrive before removing the stone and watering the animals. Afterward, the stone would be placed back over the mouth of the well. Jacob went over to the shepherds and asked, where are you from, my friends? We are from Haran, they answered. Do you know a man there named Laban, the grandson of Nahor, he asked. Yes, we do, they replied. Is he doing well, Jacob asked. Yes, he's well, they answered. It's fascinating, isn't it? Look, here comes his daughter Rachel with the flock now. Jacob said, look, it's still broad daylight, too early to round up the animals. Why don't you water the sheep and goats so they can get back out to pasture? Lots of detail. We can't water the animals until all the flocks have arrived, they replied. Then the shepherds move the stone from the mouth of the well and we water all the sheep and the goats. You get the gist. Jacob was still, beginning to choke on it, Jacob was still talking with them when Rachel arrived with her father's flock, for she was a shepherd. And because Rachel was his cousin, the daughter of Laban, his mother's brother, and because the sheep and goats belonged to his uncle Laban, Jacob went over to the well and moved the stone from its mouth and watered his uncle's flock. Then Jacob kissed Rachel, and he wept aloud. No comment about what Rachel did. He explained to Rachel that he was her cousin on her father's side, the son of her aunt Rebecca, so Rachel quickly ran and told her father Laban. As soon as Laban heard that his nephew Jacob had arrived, he ran out to meet him. He embraced and kissed him and brought him home. When Jacob had told him his story, Laban explained, you really are my own flesh and blood. After Jacob had stayed with Laban for about a month, Laban said to him, you couldn't work for me without pay just because we are relatives. Tell me how much your wages should be. Now Laban had two daughters. The older daughter was named Leah, and the younger one was Rachel. There was no sparkle in Leah's eyes, but Rachel had a beautiful figure and a lovely face. Since Jacob was in love with Rachel, he told her father, I'll work for you for seven years if you'll give me Rachel, your younger daughter, as my wife. Agreed, Laban replied. I'd rather give her to you than to anyone else. Stay and work with me. So Jacob worked seven years to pay for Rachel, but his love for her was so strong that it seemed to him but a few days. Finally, the time came for him to marry her. I have fulfilled my agreement, Jacob said to Laban. Now give me my wife so I can sleep with her. So Laban invited everyone in the neighbourhood and prepared a wedding feast. But that night, when it was dark, Laban took Leah to Jacob, thank you, and he slept with her. Laban had given Leah a servant, Zilpa, to be her maid. But when Jacob woke up in the morning, it was Leah. What have you done to me, Jacob raised at Laban? I worked seven years for Rachel. Why have you tricked me? It's not our custom here to marry off a younger daughter ahead of the firstborn, Laban replied. But wait until the bridal week is over, then we'll give you Rachel, too. Provided you promise to work for another seven years. Laban's onto something here, isn't he? So Jacob agreed to work seven more years. A week after Jacob had married Leah, Laban gave him Rachel, too. Laban gave Rachel a servant, Bilhar, to be her maid. So Jacob slept with Rachel, too, and he loved her much more than Leah. He then stayed and worked for Laban the additional seven years. When the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, he enabled her to have children, but Rachel could not conceive. So Leah became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She named him Reuben, for she said the Lord has noticed my misery and now my husband will love me. She soon became pregnant again and gave birth to another son. She named him Simeon, for she said the Lord heard that I was unloved and has given me another son. Then she became pregnant a third time and gave birth to another son. He was named Levi, for she said surely this time my husband will feel affection for me since I have given him three sons. Once again Leah became pregnant and gave birth to another son. She named him Judah, for she said, now I will praise the Lord. And then she stopped having children. Amen? You can see why they say, when we've got the rotor going forward about who's going to speak on a Sunday morning, of all the series, this is the one that gets people flicking through the Bible reading. Where's my passage? What's it going to be about? I know Andy's already researching for the next one. The school of hard knocks, focused on Jacob. I mean, Jacob, I mean the mind boggles. I'm not sure what was in his mind or what he thought the blessing would mean, but clearly things weren't working out as he planned. Here was Jacob the trickster, the one who had conspired to get the blessing, and suddenly he finds what goes around comes around, and he's in the middle of a situation where somebody else has double-crossed him. He's thinking, this isn't fair. This isn't the way it's supposed to be. This isn't what happens to blessed people. This is something, you know, I'm Jacob. I'm the big man. I carry the blessing of my father, and yet things weren't working out as he planned. They do say, be careful what you wish for, and if Jacob thought that the blessing he received meant a passport to an easy and trouble-free life, then he was mistaken, sadly mistaken. For him, I suppose, at the outset, the blessing, that moment where he said to his father, give me the, or he sort of put himself in the place of his brother to receive that blessing, he thought that would be it. That would be all his problems solved. That would be all he needed in life, that moment of blessing, laying on of hands, you are blessed, go forward. But in actual fact, from God's perspective, he was only signing on for a lifetime of training. He was signing on for a lifetime of discovering what it means to carry the blessing of God on your life. He was signing on for training through the school of hard knocks. And we do need that perspective on our lives as we go forward. It's so difficult sometimes to come to terms with the challenges of life, and yet if we can understand that actually we carry the blessing. Jacob didn't lose the blessing. The blessing didn't slip from him, and he had to keep going back to find it and look for it again. He carried the blessing permanently, but yet the lifestyle that he led him into was challenging and frustrating and disappointing. It made him angry. It made him upset. It cost him. It was painful. There was all of that that he had to go through in order to discover what it means to be somebody who carries the blessing of God on his life. And if we can have that perspective, we are blessed. Ephesians says you have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ. You have been blessed. We carry it all. And yet when we look at our lives, we think, well, this actually looks a little bit less like a lifetime of blessing and a little bit more like the school of hard knocks. Jacob's blessing was assured. No one was going to take it away from him, but it went way beyond just receiving it in that moment on that day. He had to discover what it was to be a child of God. And God has goals for our lives that are way higher than anything we can think of for ourselves. Probably our aim is to have as little challenge as possible and to go through life avoiding challenges and obstacles. That would be natural. Take the path of least resistance. Nobody wants trouble and difficulty, do they? And so when they come, it's easy to get frustrated, it's easy to get angry, it's easy to even become bitter. But it was actually the school of hard knocks that was shaping and guiding Jacob in the direction God wanted him to go. He was becoming the father of the nation of Israel. There was a promise given to Abraham, but Jacob was the one who was beginning to see it come into reality. His children were the heads of the 12 tribes of Israel. The whole of world history was unfolding from this man's life. And yet, things weren't working out from his perspective, they weren't working out as he hoped and as he expected. What does your life look like from the inside out? As I stand here and look out on you, I can see that you're all, you've all got it. You're all just serenely moving on in the life of faith. There's no trouble here, is there? There's no challenge. There's no difficulty. Nothing makes you anxious or worries you. There's nothing that makes you scratch your head and you think, what on earth is going on here? None of that for us, is there, at MCF? No, no, no. So, but maybe from the inside out, you think actually, if only you knew the half of it. If only you knew what I wake up with and what I go to bed at night thinking about, then you'd know that actually life is challenging and life is difficult for me. Things haven't worked out as you thought they might. You might be worried or anxious, disappointed, angry, confused. You thought, well, maybe for somebody that is blessed like me, maybe things would have been easier for me. Maybe I could have expected to have a few more answers when I pray. Maybe some of the situations that I pray for, maybe some of them would have changed a little bit, except they haven't. And yet the perspective says, actually, we know that we are blessed people. We know that God hasn't forgotten us. We know that the blessing hasn't slipped from our shoulders. And so maybe our perspective can change and say, actually, that is, maybe this school of hard knocks that we go through is the very thing that will shape us, that will squeeze us, that will mould us, that will turn us into the children of God that God wants us to be. It's very difficult to give a message like this because this is the sort of advice that nobody wants to get, is it? You don't say, it's all right, it's the school of hard knocks, God's making you a better person. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and all of that stuff. And nobody, yeah, thanks a lot. I remember reading a book by Bill Bryson called A Walk in the Woods, and he was discovering all the things that were to be frightened of on the Appalachian Trail. And one of the things was bears. And there was advice to hikers saying that if, and he was reading the guidebook, he said, and so when confronted by a bear, don't panic, stay calm, and stand still. And he said, you just know that that was written by somebody sat behind a keyboard and not stood in front of a bear. And his comment was, thanks a lot, professor. And that can be the danger when we give this sort of perspective on life. You can look at me and say, thanks a lot, professor. But you don't know how hard it is, you don't know how difficult it is, and the truth is I don't. There are many things that people face. I wouldn't even pretend to comprehend how challenging and how mountainous the things look like that are in front of people, even in this room. Things that we're wrestling with, things that we go through. But yet, we can't get away from the perspective of the Word that says if we take a step back, we can actually see actually we are blessed people, we are secure, we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we belong to God through faith in Christ. And so therefore, we can trust God through the school of hard knocks, through the difficulties, through the challenges that we go through. It's just a question of what we think blessing looks like in our lives. At the end of it all, what we know about God will not be downloaded in a prayer. I'm fully for that moment when somebody says, could you pray for me? Or I'll receive prayer and we look to God to do something in our lives in that moment. We trust God for that. We trust God for miracles and miraculous intervention and all of that. But at the same time, it's not just about downloading something in a moment of time and say, now all my problems are gone. In actual fact, sometimes it's just the beginning. As we receive that impetus from God, that touch from God, we then go forward in life and everything happens to challenge what God has done. I remember somebody saying, when I prayed for patience, God sent everything that wound me up and made me impatient. Carl Beach is coming in a few weeks' time. He'll tell you his own story, but he's had his troubles with health and he's very open about the fact he's had young onset Parkinson's disease. And he told me, one prayer I had, he said, being a public speaker, one prayer I had was, Lord, don't let it affect my voice. And it's the very thing that has been affected. And yet, as you follow his journey, you see how God is using that, not only to teach himself about God, but how he's helping thousands and thousands of other people through something he's invented. He'll probably tell us all about it. That through the struggle, through the hard knock of God giving him the opposite of what he prayed for, he's discovered more about God. Erica spoke about Jacob meeting God in a certain place, not an obvious place, not an easy place, but a certain place. And we know that God can be met in every certain place. And you could say, genuinely and with justification, you don't know my situation. And I don't. And you don't know mine. But we have that ability to meet God in the certain place. Nothing is wasted in our lives. Nothing is wasted. Nothing can separate us from the love of God, trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword, height nor depth, death nor life, angels or demons. Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Let it be our prayer. I want to know you Lord. I want to know you Lord. And many of us, some of us, we had baptism last week, wonderful time. People embarking out on a life of faith. We pray for people and bless them as they enter into that. And some of us old timers can sit back and think, oh, you know, this is a long time since I was baptized. There is a prayer that we need to pray every single day, every single week. I want to know you Lord, whatever that takes. I want to know you Lord, but our hearts need to be prepared for what that might be like. It's an opportunity to know God. One of the most helpful bits of advice I ever heard was, let's meet everything with calmness. I'm not very good at that, meeting everything with calmness, but it's a good reminder that actually we can afford to meet everything with calmness because God has got us in the palm of his hand. There's a nice little bit of artwork that somebody did once of somebody hanging from a rope and God sort of holding onto the rope like this and the hand of God was holding it and they were doing their best to cut through the rope and then obviously the inference was they were going to drop. And then as you pan out from the picture, the other hand of God is underneath the catch. There's safety in the hands of God to the point that we can trust him whatever happens to us. Meet everything with calmness. Because if we take the long view, then our testimony will be, God, you'll do all things well. Maybe you can't understand something in this moment in time, cannot understand it. What are you doing, Lord? What is going on? What is happening to me? But that calmness says, just wait. Just wait. Keep walking. Keep moving. Keep going. Keep embracing. Keep trusting. Because at the end of it all, we'll say, God, you do all things well. The main character of the story is Jacob. Probably, if you were asked to assess the other, the female lead might be Rachel. And somewhere in the background there's Leah, the older sister. What a sad story. Treated and mistreated by her father, by her husband, by everybody. She's totally disregarded. She's just a name. She had no sparkle in her eyes. Even the Bible says that. Rachel was really beautiful, but it's Leah. No sparkle. What a way to be remembered. But like in all things, if we go to the margins, if we go to the excluded, if we go to the forgotten, that's often where we find God. And she's thrown into a situation that she wouldn't have chosen for herself. She's been given to a man to marry who didn't want her and didn't choose her. And what we see is that God's focus was on her. In fact, more than anyone else. In verse 31, it says, when the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, he enabled her to have children. The Lord saw that she was unloved. There's no grace in the description of her life or the value of her life that was given before that, but the Lord placed value on her life. He enabled her to have children. She was lost in the system. She was a very small cog in a large machine. Not second choice, but no choice at all. And God saw her in her distress. One of the most moving things I heard one time was when we were in Zambia and sat with a family that had been through, they'd had a really successful business, and they'd gone through such turmoil, and they'd lost everything. And they were ill, and they were struggling, and they were suffering. And we had some money had been given, and we went to see them just to help them. And they realized that what they could do with it was they could pay their telephone bill, because their telephone was being cut off. And this was a family that had really prospered and done great things. And then as we sat with them and gave them this gift and prayed with them, the lady said, Now I know that God sees. And I think, wow, that's really, really powerful, because God sees us in our distress. You don't have to be loud or in the forefront for God to see you, for God to move on your behalf. You don't have to be the popular ones, the talented ones, the noticeable ones, because God blessed Leah through the circumstances she went through, through her own school of hard knocks. And she started, even in the middle of all of this, gave birth to four children for Jacob. He wasn't that bothered about marrying her, but he still didn't mind her giving birth to four children for him. And she gave birth to a son and named him Reuben, for she said, The Lord has noticed my misery, and now my husband will love me. What a sad prayer. The name Reuben is related to the Hebrew word for see. I don't know Hebrew. I've looked it up. She poured all of her pain into the naming of her child. The Lord has noticed, and now my husband will love me, because what she saw the movement of God in her life as a key to actually her getting what she wanted. If God blesses me, then he'll give me what I want. Sadly, it didn't happen. She thought if only, like we do, if only we had, if only things were different, if only circumstances were changed, then if only because of this, maybe now God has seen us, so God will now do what I want him to do. But there was no breakthrough. Reuben was one of the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel, but she didn't know that. She was just thinking about her situation. She saw the hand of God and wanted him to change her circumstances. Why do we worship God? Why is it just a means to an end? Lord, if I worship you, if I give to you, if I pray to you, will you give me what I want? It's like a, like a, you know, put our money in the slot and pull the lever and see if we can get what we want from God. But God didn't, and God doesn't mind leaving us, scratching our heads and wondering what is going on, because he has a higher purpose in mind for our lives. Her second son, Simeon, she said, the Lord heard I was unloved and has given me another son. She's working it out. Oh, I've got another son because the Lord has blessed me. In her world, the hand of God, God was just concerned about her situation, and we can find ourselves in that frame of mind very easily. Simeon is related to the word here, indicating she was really fixed on her need for God to hear her pain. She now had proof that God had heard her, and therefore he was going to do what she wanted and what she needed him to do. Her problems were going to be solved. She was connected now to God. She knew that God had heard her. Problem over. No breakthrough. Nothing changed. A third time, she became pregnant and gave birth to Levi, saying, surely this time my husband will feel affection for me since I have given him three sons. I deserve something back for this because I have given him three sons. God will now bless me. My husband will feel affection for me. Levi is related to the word attach, longing for her husband to be attached to her. She disregarded all that was going on in her life, focused on her need for God to do something about her pain. And finally, she gave birth to Judah, and something changed in her at that moment. I don't know what it was, but something changed, and she said, now I will praise the Lord. She didn't mention her husband anymore. She didn't mention her pain. She didn't mention her bitterness. She didn't mention her need for things to change. She looked at her fourth child and said, now I will praise the Lord. She acknowledged and praised God. Judah is related to the word for praise, and she was finally free of her anxious pursuit of her husband and freely praised the Lord. This was her breakthrough. This was her freedom, and actually this is our freedom as well. And I hesitate, and I'm nervous to put it through because I know how difficult it is. When somebody comes and says, actually, put aside your worries and just praise the Lord, you think, thanks a lot. It doesn't really work like that. Sometimes we like worry. Sometimes I can find that worry is a comfort. If you think, people say, don't worry about it. You say, well, what am I going to do then if I don't worry about it? Jesus himself said, don't worry about this life, what you'll eat, what you'll wear, all the very things that we worry about, problems that could happen, catastrophizing situations, going to the end of the line and saying, oh, if this happens and this happens and this happens, then we're all going to be destroyed and everything's going to be finished and it's all going to be hopeless, and I don't even know why we even bother praising God because it's just not going to work out all right. And yet the freedom that Leah found, the freedom that we will find, will be the freedom where we started this worship service. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Give a sacrifice of praise to God, unconditional, unattached, no strings attached, whatever. Lord, you have been good to me. And many of us have prayers that we've carried for a long time and God is leading us to a moment where we can lay them down and lift up empty arms to God. Give that sacrifice of praise. It's so hard to do, but so liberating to do it. And you know what? The reason why we don't like the advice, the reason why we don't like the people like me coming along and saying, well, it's all right, just praise the Lord, is because it doesn't work like that. Like I've said, it doesn't happen in a moment, a moment of blessing, a moment of revelation, a moment of inspiration. It took Leah four children. How long is that? Quite long. It's more than four times nine months, isn't it? It took her years to get to that moment. And she didn't even know the process she was going through. She didn't even know she was on a slow transformation. She was being squeezed like that Play-Doh machines, where you put them in and you squeeze them and something comes out a different shape. You know what I'm talking about. So she was being transformed and she didn't even know. And yet she ended up at this moment when Judah was born and she said, now I will praise the Lord. And you see what God can do, that the milestones in her painful journey, the children named after her pain actually took their place in the history of the world. Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah. Levi and Judah. Levi was the head of the tribe of Levi, which was the priestly tribe, the whole tribe that would minister to God and would minister on behalf of the nation and would minister to the world. And Judah is the royal tribe from whom came Jesus, the lion of the tribe of Judah. And so Leah in many ways was the mother of the tribe of Judah. And she had no idea. All she could think about was her pain and her difficulty and whatever. And yet she got through to the end of the process. She said, now I will praise the Lord. And yet in the meantime, it doesn't mean nothing is wasted. All those children before when she was in bitterness and pain and anxiety and distress, they still took their place according to the purposes of God. And God will work out his purposes in our lives, not only what he does in us. All she wanted was her husband to love her. God wanted more from her. And sometimes all we want is one thing that we're fixed on, and yet God wants more from us. And God will produce more from us. And he will establish more in us if we will go through that process. And in actual fact, he puts us through that process whether we choose it or not. Leah didn't, she wouldn't, she didn't respond at a conference and said, now I'm going to go through this transformation. She was just put on the school of hard knocks. And she got through it, and she ended up in a good place, in a free place, in a healthy spiritual moment where she said, now I'm going to praise the Lord. And lo and behold, all her children, and she even had more later on, that's for somebody else to deal with, you know, there was all these tribes of Israel. But what a testimony that Judah, Jesus' own tribe, she was the mother. She had been squeezed by bitter circumstances into a woman who learned to praise God and put her faith in him, and in the process God was not only working his purposes for her life, but for the whole world. Remember, nothing is wasted. And sometimes we won't even know until we look back at eternity what it's all about. But we're going to have the stories to tell. It's not about a moment of blessing and God did this and that and the other. And sometimes we can be discouraged by victorious things. You know, we say, oh, it's all great, everything worked out, because we actually are all going through the school of hard knocks. But over the long period, the long process, God does all things well. Amen. Good. Yeah. Let's praise God.

Scopri la Bibbia un versetto per volta con semplici commenti dell'insegnante Egidio Annunziata.LETTURA DELLA SACRA BIBBIAGenesi 46 - https://www.bible.com/it/bible...1 Israele partì con tutto quello che aveva e, giunto a Beer-Sceba, offrì sacrifici al Dio d'Isacco suo padre.2 Dio parlò a Israele in visioni notturne e disse: «Giacobbe, Giacobbe!» Ed egli rispose: «Eccomi».3 Dio disse: «Io sono Dio, il Dio di tuo padre. Non temere di scendere in Egitto, perché là ti farò diventare una grande nazione.4 Io scenderò con te in Egitto, te ne farò anche sicuramente risalire e Giuseppe ti chiuderà gli occhi».5 Allora Giacobbe partì da Beer-Sceba; e i figli d'Israele fecero salire Giacobbe loro padre, i loro bambini e le loro mogli sui carri che il faraone aveva mandati per trasportarli.6 Essi presero il loro bestiame e i beni che avevano acquisiti nel paese di Canaan e scesero in Egitto: Giacobbe con tutta la sua famiglia.7 Egli fece venire con sé in Egitto i suoi figli, i figli dei suoi figli, le sue figlie, le figlie dei suoi figli e tutta la sua famiglia.8 Questi sono i nomi dei figli d'Israele che vennero in Egitto: Giacobbe e i suoi figli. Il primogenito di Giacobbe: Ruben.9 I figli di Ruben: Chenoc, Pallu, Chesron e Carmi.10 I figli di Simeone: Iemuel, Iamin, Oad, Iachin, Soar e Saul, figlio di una Cananea.11 I figli di Levi: Gherson, Cheat e Merari.12 I figli di Giuda: Er, Onan, Sela, Perez e Zarac; ma Er e Onan morirono nel paese di Canaan; i figli di Perez furono: Chesron e Camul.13 I figli d'Issacar: Tola, Puva, Iob e Simron.14 I figli di Zabulon: Sered, Elon e Ialeel.15 Questi sono i figli che Lea partorì a Giacobbe a Paddan-Aram, oltre a Dina, figlia di lui. I suoi figli e le sue figlie erano in tutto trentatré persone.16 I figli di Gad: Sifion, Agghi, Suni, Esbon, Eri, Arodi e Areli.17 I figli di Ascer: Imna, Tisva, Tisvi, Beria e Serac loro sorella; i figli di Beria: Eber e Malchiel.18 Questi furono i figli di Zilpa che Labano aveva dato a sua figlia Lea; lei li partorì a Giacobbe: in tutto sedici persone.19 I figli di Rachele, moglie di Giacobbe: Giuseppe e Beniamino.20 A Giuseppe, nel paese d'Egitto, nacquero Manasse ed Efraim, i quali Asenat, figlia di Potifera, sacerdote di On, gli partorì.21 I figli di Beniamino: Bela, Becher, Asbel, Ghera, Naaman, Ei, Ros, Muppim, Cuppim e Ard.22 Questi sono i figli di Rachele che nacquero a Giacobbe: in tutto quattordici persone.23 I figli di Dan: Cusim.24 I figli di Neftali: Iacseel, Guni, Ieser e Sillem.25 Questi sono i figli di Bila, che Labano aveva dato a sua figlia Rachele; lei li partorì a Giacobbe: in tutto sette persone.26 Le persone che vennero con Giacobbe in Egitto, discendenti da lui, senza contare le mogli dei figli di Giacobbe, erano in tutto sessantasei.27 I figli di Giuseppe, natigli in Egitto, erano due. Il totale delle persone della famiglia di Giacobbe che vennero in Egitto era di settanta.Salmi 34 - https://www.bible.com/it/bible...Episodio: Genesi 46Conduttore: Egidio AnnunziataLuogo: Nocera Inferiore, Salerno - ItalyEvento: Incontro domenicale della comunità Essere Un CristianoData: 05/11/2023Lingua: ItalianaProduzione: © Essere Un Cristiano 2023

Send us a Text Message.What can the sibling rivalry between Jacob and Esau teach us about God's covenant and our own life's journey? This verse by verse Bible study episode delves into the relationships and choices that define the lives of these Biblical brothers, with a close look at Genesis 28. We explore Jacob's journey to Paddan Aram under the shadow of his deceit and Esau's rebellious response to his parents' disapproval of Canaanite wives. Unpacking these dynamics sheds light on how God's promises unfold through Jacob's lineage despite the turmoil. Join us on this journey through Genesis and discover the profound truths about faith, grace, and God's promises.Support the Show.

Scopri la Bibbia un versetto per volta con semplici commenti dell'insegnante Egidio Annunziata.LETTURA DELLA SACRA BIBBIAGenesi 35 - https://www.bible.com/it/bible...1 Dio disse a Giacobbe: «Àlzati, va' ad abitare a Betel; là farai un altare al Dio che ti apparve quando fuggivi davanti a tuo fratello Esaù».2 Allora Giacobbe disse alla sua famiglia e a tutti quelli che erano con lui: «Togliete gli dèi stranieri che sono in mezzo a voi, purificatevi e cambiatevi i vestiti;3 partiamo, andiamo a Betel; là farò un altare al Dio che mi esaudì nel giorno della mia angoscia e che è stato con me nel viaggio che ho fatto».4 Essi diedero a Giacobbe tutti gli dèi stranieri che erano nelle loro mani e gli anelli che avevano agli orecchi; Giacobbe li nascose sotto la quercia che è presso Sichem.5 Poi partirono. Il terrore di Dio invase le città che erano intorno a loro, e nessuno inseguì i figli di Giacobbe.6 Così Giacobbe e tutta la gente che aveva con sé giunsero a Luz, cioè Betel, che è nel paese di Canaan.7 Lì costruì un altare e chiamò quel luogo El-Betel, perché Dio gli era apparso lì quando egli fuggiva davanti a suo fratello.8 Allora morì Debora, balia di Rebecca, e fu sepolta al di sotto di Betel, sotto la quercia che fu chiamata Allon-Bacut.9 Dio apparve ancora a Giacobbe, quando questi veniva da Paddan-Aram, e lo benedisse.10 Dio gli disse: «Il tuo nome è Giacobbe. Tu non sarai più chiamato Giacobbe, ma il tuo nome sarà Israele». E lo chiamò Israele.11 Dio gli disse: «Io sono il Dio onnipotente; sii fecondo e moltìplicati; una nazione, anzi una moltitudine di nazioni discenderà da te, dei re usciranno dai tuoi lombi;12 darò a te e alla tua discendenza dopo di te il paese che diedi ad Abraamo e a Isacco».13 E Dio se ne andò risalendo dal luogo dove gli aveva parlato.14 Allora Giacobbe eresse, nel luogo dove Dio gli aveva parlato, un monumento di pietra; vi fece sopra una libazione e vi sparse su dell'olio.15 Giacobbe chiamò Betel il luogo dove Dio gli aveva parlato.16 Poi partirono da Betel. C'era ancora qualche distanza per arrivare a Efrata, quando Rachele partorì. Ella ebbe un parto difficile.17 Mentre penava a partorire, la levatrice le disse: «Non temere, perché questo è un altro figlio per te».18 Mentre l'anima sua se ne andava, perché stava morendo, chiamò il bimbo Ben-Oni; ma il padre lo chiamò Beniamino.19 Rachele dunque morì e fu sepolta sulla via di Efrata, cioè di Betlemme.20 Giacobbe eresse una pietra commemorativa sulla tomba di lei. Questa pietra commemorativa della tomba di Rachele esiste tuttora.21 Poi Israele partì e piantò la sua tenda di là da Migdal-Eder.22 Mentre Israele abitava in quel paese, Ruben andò e si unì a Bila, concubina di suo padre, e Israele venne a saperlo.23 I figli di Giacobbe erano dodici. I figli di Lea: Ruben, primogenito di Giacobbe, Simeone, Levi, Giuda, Issacar, Zabulon.24 I figli di Rachele: Giuseppe e Beniamino.25 I figli di Bila, serva di Rachele: Dan e Neftali.Episodio: Genesi 35Conduttore: Egidio AnnunziataLuogo: Nocera Inferiore, Salerno - ItalyEvento: Incontro domenicale della comunità Essere Un CristianoData: 20/08/2023Lingua: ItalianaProduzione: © Essere Un Cristiano 2023

Scopri la Bibbia un versetto per volta con semplici commenti dell'insegnante Egidio Annunziata.LETTURA DELLA SACRA BIBBIAGenesi 33 - https://www.bible.com/it/bible...1 Giacobbe alzò gli occhi, guardò, ed ecco Esaù che veniva avendo con sé 400 uomini. Allora divise i figli tra Lea, Rachele e le 2 serve.2 Mise davanti le serve e i loro figli, poi Lea e i suoi figli, e infine Rachele e Giuseppe.3 Egli stesso passò davanti a loro, e s'inchinò fino a terra 7 volte, finché si fu avvicinato a suo fratello.4 Ed Esaù gli corse incontro, lo abbracciò, gli si gettò al collo, lo baciò e piansero.5 Poi Esaù, alzando gli occhi, vide le donne e i bambini, e disse: «Chi sono questi che hai con te?» Giacobbe rispose: «Sono i figli che Dio si è compiaciuto di dare al tuo servo».6 Allora le serve si avvicinarono con i loro figli e s'inchinarono.7 Si avvicinarono anche Lea e i suoi figli e s'inchinarono. Poi si avvicinarono Giuseppe e Rachele e s'inchinarono.8 Allora Esaù disse: «Che ne vuoi fare di tutta quella schiera che ho incontrato?» Giacobbe rispose: «È per trovare grazia agli occhi del mio signore».9 Ed Esaù: «Io ho molta roba, fratello mio; tieni per te ciò che è tuo».10 Ma Giacobbe disse: «No, ti prego, se ho trovato grazia agli occhi tuoi, accetta il dono dalla mia mano, perché io ho visto il tuo volto come uno vede il volto di Dio, e tu mi hai fatto buona accoglienza.11 Ti prego, accetta il mio dono che ti è stato presentato, perché Dio è stato molto buono con me, e io ho di tutto». E tanto insistette che Esaù lo accettò.12 Poi Esaù disse: «Partiamo, incamminiamoci, io andrò davanti a te».13 Giacobbe rispose: «Il mio signore sa che i bambini sono in tenera età e che ho con me delle pecore e delle vacche che allattano; se si forzasse la loro andatura anche per un giorno solo, le bestie morirebbero.14 Passi dunque il mio signore davanti al suo servo; e io me ne verrò pian piano, al passo del bestiame che mi precederà, e al passo dei bambini, finché arrivi presso al mio signore, a Seir».15 Esaù disse: «Permetti almeno che io lasci con te un po' della gente che ho con me». Ma Giacobbe rispose: «E perché questo? Basta che io trovi grazia agli occhi del mio signore».16 Così Esaù, in quel giorno stesso, rifece il cammino verso Seir.17 Giacobbe partì alla volta di Succot, costruì una casa per sé e fece delle capanne per il suo bestiame; per questo quel luogo fu chiamato Succot.18 Poi Giacobbe, tornando da Paddan-Aram, arrivò sano e salvo alla città di Sichem, nel paese di Canaan, e piantò le tende di fronte alla città.19 Per cento pezzi di denaro comprò dai figli di Camor, padre di Sichem, la parte del campo dove aveva piantato le sue tende.20 Eresse qui un altare e lo chiamò El-Eloè-Israel.Episodio: Genesi 33Conduttore: Egidio AnnunziataLuogo: Nocera Inferiore, Salerno - ItalyEvento: Incontro domenicale della comunità Essere Un CristianoData: 06/08/2023Lingua: ItalianaProduzione: © Essere Un Cristiano 2023

Scopri la Bibbia un versetto per volta con semplici commenti dell'insegnante Egidio Annunziata.LETTURA DELLA SACRA BIBBIAGenesi 31 - https://www.bible.com/it/bible...1 Giacobbe sentì che i figli di Labano dicevano: «Giacobbe ha preso tutto quello che era di nostro padre e, con quello che era di nostro padre, si è fatto tutta questa ricchezza».2 Giacobbe osservò pure il volto di Labano e vide che non era più, verso di lui, quello di prima.3 Il Signore disse a Giacobbe: «Torna al paese dei tuoi padri, dai tuoi parenti, e io sarò con te».4 Allora Giacobbe mandò a chiamare Rachele e Lea perché venissero ai campi, presso il suo gregge,5 e disse loro: «Io vedo che il volto di vostro padre non è più, verso di me, quello di prima; ma il Dio di mio padre è stato con me.6 Voi sapete che io ho servito vostro padre con tutte le mie forze,7 mentre vostro padre mi ha ingannato e ha mutato il mio salario dieci volte; ma Dio non gli ha permesso di farmi del male.8 Quando egli diceva: “I macchiati saranno il tuo salario”, tutto il gregge figliava agnelli macchiati. Quando diceva: “Gli striati saranno il tuo salario”, tutto il gregge figliava agnelli striati.9 Così Dio ha tolto il bestiame a vostro padre e lo ha dato a me.10 Una volta, quando le pecore entravano in calore, io alzai gli occhi e vidi in sogno che i maschi, che montavano le femmine, erano striati, macchiati o chiazzati.11 L'angelo di Dio mi disse nel sogno: “Giacobbe!” Io risposi: “Eccomi!”12 L'angelo disse: “Alza ora gli occhi e guarda; tutti i maschi che montano le femmine sono striati, macchiati o chiazzati, perché ho visto tutto quello che Labano ti fa.13 Io sono il Dio di Betel, dove tu versasti dell'olio su una pietra commemorativa e mi facesti un voto. Ora àlzati, parti da questo paese e torna al tuo paese natìo”».14 Rachele e Lea gli risposero: «Abbiamo forse ancora qualche parte o eredità in casa di nostro padre?15 Non ci ha forse trattate da straniere, quando ci ha vendute e ha per di più divorato il nostro denaro?16 Tutte le ricchezze che Dio ha tolte a nostro padre sono nostre e dei nostri figli. Fa' dunque tutto quello che Dio ti ha detto».17 Allora Giacobbe si alzò, mise i suoi figli e le sue mogli sui cammelli18 e portò via tutto il suo bestiame – tutti i beni che si era procurato, il bestiame che gli apparteneva e che aveva acquistato in Paddan-Aram – per andarsene da suo padre Isacco nel paese di Canaan.19 Or mentre Labano se ne era andato a tosare le sue pecore, Rachele rubò gli idoli di suo padre.20 Giacobbe ingannò Labano l'Arameo, perché non gli disse che stava per fuggire.21 Così se ne fuggì con tutto quello che aveva; si levò, passò il fiume e si diresse verso il monte di Galaad.22 Il terzo giorno avvertirono Labano che Giacobbe era fuggito.23 Allora egli prese con sé i suoi fratelli, lo inseguì per sette giornate di cammino e lo raggiunse al monte di Galaad.24 Ma Dio venne da Labano l'Arameo, di notte, in un sogno, e gli disse: «Guàrdati dal parlare a Giacobbe, né in bene né in male».Episodio: Genesi 31Conduttore: Egidio AnnunziataLuogo: Nocera Inferiore, Salerno - ItalyEvento: Incontro domenicale della comunità Essere Un CristianoData: 23/07/2023Lingua: ItalianaProduzione: © Essere Un Cristiano 2023

Scopri la Bibbia un versetto per volta con semplici commenti dell'insegnante Egidio Annunziata.LETTURA DELLA SACRA BIBBIAGenesi 28 - https://www.bible.com/it/bible...1 Allora Isacco chiamò Giacobbe, lo benedisse e gli diede quest'ordine: «Non prendere moglie tra le donne di Canaan.2 Parti, va' a Paddan-Aram, alla casa di Betuel, padre di tua madre, e prendi moglie là, tra le figlie di Labano, fratello di tua madre.3 Il Dio onnipotente ti benedica, ti renda fecondo e ti moltiplichi, in modo che tu diventi un'assemblea di popoli,4 e ti dia la benedizione di Abraamo: a te e alla tua discendenza con te, perché tu possieda il paese dove sei andato peregrinando, che Dio donò ad Abraamo».5 Isacco fece partire Giacobbe, il quale andò a Paddan-Aram da Labano, figlio di Betuel, l'Arameo, fratello di Rebecca, madre di Giacobbe e di Esaù.6 Esaù vide che Isacco aveva benedetto Giacobbe e l'aveva mandato a Paddan-Aram perché vi prendesse moglie e che, benedicendolo, gli aveva dato quest'ordine: «Non prendere moglie tra le donne di Canaan»,7 e che Giacobbe aveva ubbidito a suo padre e a sua madre ed era andato a Paddan-Aram.8 Esaù comprese che le donne di Canaan non erano gradite a suo padre Isacco.9 Allora andò da Ismaele, e prese per moglie, oltre quelle che aveva già, Maalat, figlia d'Ismaele, figlio di Abraamo, sorella di Nebaiot.10 Giacobbe partì da Beer-Sceba e andò verso Caran.11 Giunse ad un certo luogo e vi passò la notte, perché il sole era già tramontato. Prese una delle pietre del luogo, se la mise per capezzale e lì si coricò.12 Fece un sogno: una scala poggiava sulla terra, mentre la sua cima toccava il cielo; e gli angeli di Dio salivano e scendevano per la scala.13 Il Signore stava al di sopra di essa e gli disse: «Io sono il Signore, il Dio di Abraamo tuo padre e il Dio d'Isacco. La terra sulla quale tu stai coricato, io la darò a te e alla tua discendenza.14 La tua discendenza sarà come la polvere della terra e tu ti estenderai a occidente e a oriente, a settentrione e a meridione, e tutte le famiglie della terra saranno benedette in te e nella tua discendenza.15 Io sono con te, e ti proteggerò dovunque tu andrai e ti ricondurrò in questo paese, perché io non ti abbandonerò prima di aver fatto quello che ti ho detto».16 Quando Giacobbe si svegliò dal sonno, disse: «Certo, il Signore è in questo luogo e io non lo sapevo!»17 Ebbe paura e disse: «Com'è tremendo questo luogo! Questa non è altro che la casa di Dio, e questa è la porta del cielo!»18 Giacobbe si alzò la mattina di buon'ora, prese la pietra che aveva messa come capezzale, la pose come pietra commemorativa e vi versò sopra dell'olio.19 E chiamò quel luogo Betel; mentre prima di allora il nome della città era Luz.20 Giacobbe fece un voto, dicendo: «Se Dio è con me, se mi protegge durante questo viaggio che sto facendo, se mi dà pane da mangiare e vesti da coprirmi,21 e se ritorno sano e salvo alla casa di mio padre, il Signore sarà il mio DioEpisodio: Genesi 28Conduttore: Egidio AnnunziataLuogo: Nocera Inferiore, Salerno - ItalyEvento: Incontro domenicale della comunità Essere Un CristianoData: 2/07/2023Lingua: ItalianaProduzione: © Essere Un Cristiano 2023

April 14, 2024 Daily Devotion: "Promise Keeper" Genesis 46:2-4 New International Version 2 And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, “Jacob! Jacob!” “Here I am,” he replied. 3 “I am God, the God of your father,” he said. “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. 4 I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph's own hand will close your eyes.” God had previously appeared to Jacob in dreams at significant moments in his life: at Bethel, confirming His calling on Jacob's life (Genesis 28:10–22), and in Paddan Aram, when God instructed him to return to the land of his fathers (Genesis 31:1–3). And, once again, God appeared to Jacob in a dream to give him instructions and confirm His promises as he was on his way to Egypt. In Egypt, God would continue to build Jacob's family into a great nation. He also promised to bring Jacob's family out of Egypt and back into the land He promised to give them. God may lead us to places we don't expect or present us with circumstances we do not understand. In these moments, we can depend on the promise-keeping character of our God. He is the one who makes the promise, and He is the one who is faithful to keep it. May we cling to His promises and trust His timing and His character, no matter what.   --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gerzon-etino/message

Scopri la Bibbia un versetto per volta con semplici commenti dell'insegnante Egidio Annunziata.LETTURA DELLA SACRA BIBBIAGenesi 25 - https://www.bible.com/it/bible...1 Poi Abraamo prese un'altra moglie, di nome Chetura.2 Questa gli partorì Zimran, Iocsan, Medan, Madian, Isbac e Suac.3 Iocsan generò Seba e Dedan. I figli di Dedan furono gli Assurim, i Letusim e i Leummim.4 E i figli di Madian furono Efa, Efer, Anoc, Abida ed Eldaa. Tutti questi furono i figli di Chetura.5 Abraamo diede tutto ciò che possedeva a Isacco;6 ma ai figli delle sue concubine fece dei doni e, mentre era ancora in vita, li mandò lontano da suo figlio Isacco, verso levante, nella terra d'Oriente.7 La durata della vita di Abraamo fu di 165 anni.8 Poi Abraamo spirò in prospera vecchiaia, attempato e sazio di giorni, e fu riunito al suo popolo.9 Isacco e Ismaele, suoi figli, lo seppellirono nella grotta di Macpela nel campo di Efron, figlio di Soar l'Ittita, di fronte a Mamre:10 campo che Abraamo aveva comprato dai figli di Chet. Lì furono sepolti Abraamo e sua moglie Sara.11 Dopo la morte di Abraamo, Dio benedisse suo figlio Isacco; e Isacco abitò presso il pozzo di Lacai-Roi.12 Or questi sono i discendenti d'Ismaele, figlio di Abraamo, che Agar l'Egiziana, serva di Sara, aveva partorito ad Abraamo.13 Questi sono i nomi dei figli d'Ismaele, secondo le loro generazioni: Nebaiot, il primogenito d'Ismaele; poi Chedar, Adbeel, Mibsam,14 Misma, Duma, Massa,15 Adad, Tema, Ietur, Nafis e Chedma.16 Questi sono i figli d'Ismaele e questi i loro nomi, secondo i loro villaggi e i loro accampamenti. Furono i dodici capi dei loro popoli.17 Gli anni della vita d'Ismaele furono centotrentasette; poi morì, e fu riunito al suo popolo.18 I suoi figli abitarono da Avila fino a Sur, che è di fronte all'Egitto, andando verso l'Assiria. Egli si era stabilito di fronte a tutti i suoi fratelli.19 Questi sono i discendenti d'Isacco, figlio di Abraamo.20 Abraamo generò Isacco; Isacco aveva quarant'anni quando prese per moglie Rebecca, figlia di Betuel, l'Arameo di Paddan-Aram, e sorella di Labano l'Arameo.21 Isacco implorò il Signore per sua moglie Rebecca, perché ella era sterile. Il Signore lo esaudì e Rebecca, sua moglie, concepì.22 I bambini si urtavano nel suo grembo ed ella disse: «Se così è, perché vivo?» E andò a consultare il Signore.23 Il Signore le disse: «Due nazioni sono nel tuo grembo e due popoli separati usciranno dal tuo seno. Uno dei due popoli sarà più forte dell'altro, e il maggiore servirà il minore».24 Quando venne per lei il tempo di partorire, ecco che lei aveva due gemelli nel grembo.25 Il primo che nacque era rosso e peloso come un mantello di pelo. Così fu chiamato Esaù.26 Dopo nacque suo fratello, che con la mano teneva il calcagno di Esaù e fu chiamato Giacobbe. Isacco aveva sessant'anni quando Rebecca li partorì.27 I due bambini crebbero. Esaù divenne un esperto cacciatore, un uomo di campagna, e Giacobbe un uomo tranquillo che se ne stava nelle tende.Episodio: Genesi 25Conduttore: Egidio AnnunziataLuogo: Nocera Inferiore, Salerno - ItalyEvento: Incontro domenicale della comunità Essere Un CristianoData: 11/06/2023Lingua: ItalianaProduzione: © Essere Un Cristiano 2023

By the end of Jacob's time in Paddan Aram it seems as if he has abandoned the faith, but has he really? Jacob helps us see how faith may express itself in folks with really messy lives.

In this Bible Story, Jacob is affirmed by the Lord that he would be blessed as his father Isaac was. Upon arrival, Jacob met Rachel, and immediately fell in love. Jacob is tricked into marrying Laban's older daughter, Leah, before marrying Rachel. This story is inspired by Genesis 28:1-29:29. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Genesis 29:10 from the King James Version.Episode 20: In fear for his life, Jacob flees from his brother by going to the home country of his mother. On the way there, he has a vision from God in which He reaffirms the promise He made to his grandfather Abraham. When Jacob finally arrives in Paddan-Aram, he meets Rachel and immediately falls in love with her.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacob arrives in Paddan Aram and meets Rachel and Laban.

(Genesis 29:1-13) We move onto chapter 29 and Jacob moves on to Paddan Aram. There he has a moment, or at least he tries to.

In this Bible Story, Jacob is affirmed by the Lord that he would be blessed as his father Isaac was. Upon arrival, Jacob met Rachel, and immediately fell in love. Jacob is tricked into marrying Laban's older daughter, Leah, before marrying Rachel. This story is inspired by Genesis 28:1-29:29. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Genesis 29:10 from the King James Version.Episode 20: In fear for his life, Jacob flees from his brother by going to the home country of his mother. On the way there, he has a vision from God in which He reaffirms the promise He made to his grandfather Abraham. When Jacob finally arrives in Paddan-Aram, he meets Rachel and immediately falls in love with her.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Początkowo językiem aramejskim posługiwano się wyłącznie w miejscu nazywanym Aram. Myślę, że to logiczne: Aramejczycy mieszkali w Aramie i mówili po aramejsku. Ale co to jest Aram i gdzie się znajdował? Np. Księga Sędziów 10:6 mówi o niewiernych Izraelitach: “Zaczęli oddawać cześć Baalom, podobiznom Asztarte, bogom Aramu”. W starszych przekładach biblijnych, np. w Biblii Wujka i Biblii gdańskiej można tutaj przeczytać, że “oddawali cześć bogom Syrii”. Współczesne Biblie na ogół pozostawiają hebrajskie słowo “Aram”, a te starsze przekłady oddawały to jako “Syria”. Oba tłumaczenia są dobre, ale to starsze jest chyba łatwiejsze do zrozumienia, bo gdy słyszymy Aram to myślę, że mało kto wie gdzie to było, ale gdy słyszymy Syria od razu pewnie kojarzy się nam to państwo z jego stolicą w Damaszku.Według Rodzaju 10:22 Aram był potomkiem Sema, tak więc potomkowie Arama tak jak Izraelici byli Semitami. Nie dziwi więc fakt, że język potomków Arama czyli aramejski był spokrewniony z hebrajskim. Abraham początkowo mieszkał w Ur Chaldejskim później jednak przeprowadził się do Syrii do miasta Charan. Nie dziwi więc też to, że język chaldejski także był spokrewiony z aramejskim i hebrajskim. Później Abraham poszedł dalej do Ziemi Obiecanej, ale jego rodzina dalej mieszkała w Syrii. Z tej rodziny pochodziła Rebeka, żona Izaaka, syna Abrahama. Co ciekawe Rebeka miała kuzyna o imieniu Aram, który mieszkał w Aramie i mówił po aramejsku. Można chyba przyjąć, że jej kuzyn dostał to imię od kraju.Język aramejski był spokrewniony z językiem hebrajskim oraz językiem chaldejskim. Hebrajski i aramejski były chyba bliższe sobie. Abraham jest nazywany Hebrajczykiem, a więc kimś mówiącym po hebrajsku. Dla swojego syna kazał jednak sprowadzić żonę z Aramu czyli z Syrii. Czytamy o tym w Rodzaju 25:20 “Izaak miał czterdzieści lat, gdy pojął za żonę Rebekę, córkę Betuela, Aramejczyka z Paddan-Aram, siostrę Labana, Aramejczyka". Tak więc Abraham jest nazywany Hebrajczykiem, a Laban Aramejczykiem. Biblia nic jednak nie mówi o tym aby Izaak i Rebeka potrzebowali tłumacza. Można to chyba porównać do polskiego i czeskiego. Dzisiaj te języki różnią się od siebie jednak w czasach Mieszka i Dobrawy, Polacy i Czesi rozumieli się bez problemów. Później do Aramu został wysłany ich syn Izaaka i Rebeki. Czy języki hebrajski i aramejski zaczęły się różnić?Jakub przybył do Syrii i wziął sobie za żony, córki brata swojej matki czyli swoje kuzynki - Leę i Rachelę. Ponownie nic nie wskazuje na to, że miał on jakieś trudności w rozmowie z teściem czy żonami. Później jednak gdy się rozstawali Jakub i jego teść Laban zbudowali kopiec. W Rodzaju 31:47 czytamy: "Laban nazwał go Jegar Sahaduta, a Jakub nazwał go Galed". Laban użył aramejskiego, a Jakub hebrajskiego. Znaczenie obu tych wyrażeń było jednak takie samo: kopiec świadectwa. Zauważmy, już choćby w tym wyrażeniu widać różnice między hebrajskim i aramejskim.W czasach najazdu asyryjskiego (czyli ponad 500 lat później) były już to jednak dwa różne języki. Gdy król Asyrii oblegał Jerozolimię wysłał swoich sług aby przekonali obrońców miasta do poddania się. Ci asyryjscy wysłannicy mówili do ludzi na murach Jerozolimy po hebrajsku. Król Judy wysłał do nich swoich urzędników. Ich wypowiedź znajdujemy w 2 Królów 18:26, czytamy tam: "Wtedy Eljakim, syn Chilkiasza, i Szebna, i Joach rzekli do Rabszaka: Zechciej rozmawiać ze sługami swymi po aramejsku, gdyż my rozumiemy, a nie rozmawiaj z nami po judejsku przed tym ludem, który tu jest na murze". Ci wykształceni urzędnicy znali aramejski, którego jednak nie rozumiała większość mieszkańców Jerozolimy. Aramejski był w tym regionie językiem międzynarodowym, ale znali go tylko wykształceni ludzie. Ci Asyryjczycy odmówili i wołali do ludzi na murach po hebrajsku, bo chcieli ich wystraszyć. Jak jednak do tego doszło, że aramejski stał się językiem międzynarodowym?Poprzedni król asyryjski Tiglat-Pileser III nazywany Pulem jest znany z tego, że zniszczył północne królestwo Izraela. Miał on jednak także ogromny wpływ także na język. Rozpowszechnił on dialekt wschodnio-aramejski czyli język syryjski jako lingua franca. Nawet gdy Asyria upadła język aramejski dalej był językiem urzędowym u Babilończyków oraz Persów. Właśnie ten dialekt urzędowego aramejskiego znajduje się w Biblii. Fragmenty po aramejsku można znaleźć w Ezdrasza, Jeremiasza i Daniela. Czyli tak jak dzisiaj językiem międzynarodowym jest angielski, w średniowieczu była łacina, a w czasach starożytnych greka, tak w czasach przed Aleksandrem Wielkim lingua franca tamtych ziemiach był aramejski. Ten język przetrwał trzy imperia, najpierw asyryjskie, potem babilońskie, a w końcu perskie. Dopiero Grecy wprowadzili swój język jako kolejny język międzynarodowy.Język aramejski pojawił się także w Biblii. Stary Testament jest napisany głównie po hebrajsku, a Nowy po grecku. Jednak są cztery miejsca, gdzie znajdują się fragmenty (czasem całkiem długie) po aramejsku. Jak już mówiłem, Asyryjczycy wprowadzili ten język jako język urzędowy. Jednak zapisy w tym języku pojawiły się w Biblii dopiero w czasach najazdu kolejnej lokalnej potęgi - Babilonu. Zarówno Asyryjczycy jak i Babilończycy mieli własne dialekty. Jednak w oficjalnej korespondencji posługiwali się językiem aramejskim. Do tych oficjalnych dokumentów przejdę za chwilę. Pierwszy fragment jest dość krótki, ale i dość tajemniczy. W Jeremiasza 10:11 czytamy: "Tak mówcie o nich: Bogowie, którzy nie stworzyli nieba ani ziemi, zginą z ziemi i spod tego nieba". Ten jeden werset jest w oryginale po aramejsku. Dlaczego?Księga Jeremiasza to 52 rozdziały po około 25 wersetów każdy. Ale tylko ten jeden werset jest po aramejsku, reszta po hebrajsku. Dlaczego? Jeremiasz w tym 10 rozdziale mówi o swoim Bogu, ale w tym jednym wersecie zmienia temat i mówi o bożkach. Być może religię dało się rozpoznać po języku. Być może wyznawcy bożków mówili po aramejsku, a Jeremiasz i jego współwyznawcy po hebrajsku. Napiszcie mi może w komentarzu co wy myślicie. Dlaczego Jeremiasz pisał ten rozdział cały po hebrajsku i nagle werset 11 napisał po aramejsku? W księgach Daniela i Ezdrasza mamy o wiele dłuższe fragmenty po aramejsku, ale są to po prostu cytaty dokumentów.Księga Daniela to 12 rozdziałów. Fragment po aramejsku jest bardzo długi. Od rozdziału drugiego, a wersetu czwartego (od połowy) do końca rozdziału siódmego. Tak więc prawie połowa księgi Daniela jest po aramejsku. Reszta oczywiście po hebrajsku. W księdze Ezdrasza są dwa fragmenty, od Ezdrasza 4:8 do 6:18 oraz rozdział 7:12-26. Oba te fragmenty to listy do i od króla Perskiego. Jak widać jeszcze w czasach perskich używano do korespondencji z tą częścią imperium języka aramejskiego. W jakim jednak języku mówili Żydzi po powrocie z Babilonu?Historycy nie są zgodni co do języka, a w którym mówili Żydzi po niewoli babilońskiej. Jest spora grupa biblistów, która twierdzi, że zwykli Żydzi mówili po aramejsku i nie znali hebrajskiego. Księga Nehemiasza 8:8 mówi: "I czytali z księgi Zakonu ustęp za ustępem, od razu je wyjaśniając, tak że zrozumiano to, co było czytane”. Ten werset opisuje Żydów, którzy przyszli na święto. Jak zwykle podczas świąt żydowskich czytano prawo. Jednak ten werset Nehemiasza 8:8 mówi, że czytali od razu wyjaśniając. Co to znaczy? Niektórzy twierdzą, że ktoś odczytywał po hebrajsku, a osoba stojąca obok tłumaczyła to na aramejski. Oczywiście ten zwrot “od razu wyjaśniając” może oznaczać, że tłumaczono jak należy rozumieć to prawo. Jednak część biblistów twierdzi, że większość ludzi nie znała biblijnego hebrajskiego i mówiła po aramejsku, tak więc trzeba było dla nich przetłumaczyć tekst hebrajski na język aramejski. To prowadzi do pytania: jakim językiem mówił Jezus?Izaak miał czterdzieści lat, gdy pojął za żonę Rebekę, córkę Betuela, Aramejczyka z Paddan-Aram, siostrę Labana, Aramejczyka. http://biblia-online.pl/Biblia/Warszawska/1-Ksiega-Mojzeszowa/25/20Laban nazwał go Jegar Sahaduta, a Jakub nazwał go Galed.http://biblia-online.pl/Biblia/Warszawska/1-Ksiega-Mojzeszowa/31/47Wtedy Eljakim, syn Chilkiasza, i Szebna, i Joach rzekli do Rabszaka: Zechciej rozmawiać ze sługami swymi po aramejsku, gdyż my rozumiemy, a nie rozmawiaj z nami po judejsku przed tym ludem, który tu jest na murze.http://biblia-online.pl/Biblia/Warszawska/2-Ksiega-Krolewska/18/26

DAY 21 (Genesis 29-31): Alone and destitute, Jacob seeks his fortune among his kindred in Paddan Aram in upper Mesopotamia. Once there, he discovers a different kind of fortune: love. The children begotten of Jacob will have very important names echoing through history.

Sermon Genesis 25:19-21; This is the account of the family line of Abraham's son Isaac and Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan Aram and sister of Laban the Aramean. Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was childless.

This is Episode 759 of the My Morning Devotional Podcast ⁠Prayer Request Submission - Click Here!⁠ Listen to my home church's latest sermon - click here! Join me Alison Elizabeth Delamota as we dive into a Christian devotional to empower your day. Check back every weekday for a new episode! Verse of the Day: 9 After Jacob returned from Paddan Aram, God appeared to him again and blessed him. 10 God said to him, “Your name is Jacob, but you will no longer be called Jacob; your name will be Israel.” So he named him Israel. 11 And God said to him, “I am God Almighty; be fruitful and increase in number. A nation and a community of nations will come from you, and kings will be among your descendants. 12 The land I gave to Abraham and Isaac I also give to you, and I will give this land to your descendants after you.” Genesis 35:9-12 Join The Community: ⁠@mymorningdevo on IG ⁠⁠Facebook Group⁠⁠ YouTube Channel⁠ Get To Know Ali:⁠ @alisondelamota on IG⁠⁠ YouTube Channel⁠

Today on Meditating the Word, Jacob steals his brother Esau's blessing, and runs for his life to Paddan Aram to his mother's family. Esau marries one of Ishmael's daughters out of spite. Jacob sees a stairway to heaven in a dream. Jacob works seven years to have Rachel as a wife, but Laban tricks him into marrying Leah instead. Jacob agrees to work another seven years for Rachel.    This is Day 22. Today we'll be reading Genesis Chapters 27-29. ----- Father God, we are so very thankful that you love us in spite of our brokenness. When we take things into our own hands, when we make a mess of things, you heal us and make things right again. Thank you for for your mercy and your unfailing love. Thank you for being with us always, wherever we go. Amen ---- You can download a copy of the reading plan from blueletterbible.com. And please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube, that way you'll get a notification when a new episode is released. Join us in our Facebook community and share your thoughts about today's reading.  Thank you for joining me as we read the Bible in a Year. I can't wait to see you tomorrow as we continue our journey. Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/at-dawn License code: SFVKF2JFJJIFZDGT Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/dan-barton/a-greater-purpose License code: V7MXT7OL2G2RXYSM

(1) Jacob arrives at Paddan Aram. (2) Jesus and John the Baptist.

As recorded in Genesis 29, Jacob discovered there was an abundance of water behind a certain rock in Paddan Aram for every shepherd and sheep who needed it. There's still plenty of water for thirsty sheep. The rock was rolled away... permanently! “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water,'” (John 7.37-38).

Jacob's journey to and from Paddan-Aram is finally completed as he returns to his father Isaac. LSB 849 - Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness · Words: Rusty Edwards © 1987 Hope Publishing Company, Carol Stream, IL 60188. All rights reserved. Used by permission. · Music is public domain · Church/Singer – Living Savior Lutheran Church, Asheville, NC - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7HJL38qaos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/rev-steve-andrews-jr/message

In this Bible Story, Jacob is affirmed by the Lord that he would be blessed as his father Isaac was. Upon arrival, Jacob met Rachel, and immediately fell in love. Jacob is tricked into marrying Laban's older daughter, Leah, before marrying Rachel. This story is inspired by Genesis 28:1-29:29. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Genesis 29:10 from the King James Version.Episode 20: In fear for his life, Jacob flees from his brother by going to the home country of his mother. On the way there, he has a vision from God in which He reaffirms the promise He made to his grandfather Abraham. When Jacob finally arrives in Paddan-Aram, he meets Rachel and immediately falls in love with her.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Genesis 45:16–47:28When the news reached Pharaoh's palace that Joseph's brothers had come, Pharaoh and all his officials were pleased. Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals and return to the land of Canaan, and bring your father and your families back to me. I will give you the best of the land of Egypt and you can enjoy the fat of the land.'“You are also directed to tell them, ‘Do this: Take some carts from Egypt for your children and your wives, and get your father and come. Never mind about your belongings, because the best of all Egypt will be yours.'”So the sons of Israel did this. Joseph gave them carts, as Pharaoh had commanded, and he also gave them provisions for their journey. To each of them he gave new clothing, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silver and five sets of clothes. And this is what he sent to his father: ten donkeys loaded with the best things of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain and bread and other provisions for his journey. Then he sent his brothers away, and as they were leaving he said to them, “Don't quarrel on the way!”So they went up out of Egypt and came to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan. They told him, “Joseph is still alive! In fact, he is ruler of all Egypt.” Jacob was stunned; he did not believe them. But when they told him everything Joseph had said to them, and when he saw the carts Joseph had sent to carry him back, the spirit of their father Jacob revived. And Israel said, “I'm convinced! My son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”So Israel set out with all that was his, and when he reached Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, “Jacob! Jacob!”“Here I am,” he replied.“I am God, the God of your father,” he said. “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph's own hand will close your eyes.”Then Jacob left Beersheba, and Israel's sons took their father Jacob and their children and their wives in the carts that Pharaoh had sent to transport him. So Jacob and all his offspring went to Egypt, taking with them their livestock and the possessions they had acquired in Canaan. Jacob brought with him to Egypt his sons and grandsons and his daughters and granddaughters—all his offspring.These are the names of the sons of Israel (Jacob and his descendants) who went to Egypt:Reuben the firstborn of Jacob.The sons of Reuben:Hanok, Pallu, Hezron and Karmi.The sons of Simeon:Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar and Shaul the son of a Canaanite woman.The sons of Levi:Gershon, Kohath and Merari.The sons of Judah:Er, Onan, Shelah, Perez and Zerah (but Er and Onan had died in the land of Canaan).The sons of Perez:Hezron and Hamul.The sons of Issachar:Tola, Puah, Jashub and Shimron.The sons of Zebulun:Sered, Elon and Jahleel.These were the sons Leah bore to Jacob in Paddan Aram, besides his daughter Dinah. These sons and daughters of his were thirty-three in all.The sons of Gad:Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi and Areli.The sons of Asher:Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi and Beriah.Their sister was Serah.The sons of Beriah:Heber and Malkiel.These were the children born to Jacob by Zilpah, whom Laban had given to his daughter Leah—sixteen in all.The sons of Jacob's wife Rachel:Joseph and Benjamin. In Egypt, Manasseh and Ephraim were born to Joseph by Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On.The sons of Benjamin:Bela, Beker, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim and Ard.These were the sons of Rachel who were born to Jacob—fourteen in all.The son of Dan:Hushim.The sons of Naphtali:Jahziel, Guni, Jezer and Shillem.These were the sons born to Jacob by Bilhah, whom Laban had given to his daughter Rachel—seven in all.All those who went to Egypt with Jacob—those who were his direct descendants, not counting his sons' wives—numbered sixty-six persons. With the two sons who had been born to Joseph in Egypt, the members of Jacob's family, which went to Egypt, were seventy in all.Now Jacob sent Judah ahead of him to Joseph to get directions to Goshen. When they arrived in the region of Goshen, Joseph had his chariot made ready and went to Goshen to meet his father Israel. As soon as Joseph appeared before him, he threw his arms around his father and wept for a long time.Israel said to Joseph, “Now I am ready to die, since I have seen for myself that you are still alive.”Then Joseph said to his brothers and to his father's household, “I will go up and speak to Pharaoh and will say to him, ‘My brothers and my father's household, who were living in the land of Canaan, have come to me. The men are shepherds; they tend livestock, and they have brought along their flocks and herds and everything they own.' When Pharaoh calls you in and asks, ‘What is your occupation?' you should answer, ‘Your servants have tended livestock from our boyhood on, just as our fathers did.' Then you will be allowed to settle in the region of Goshen, for all shepherds are detestable to the Egyptians.”Joseph went and told Pharaoh, “My father and brothers, with their flocks and herds and everything they own, have come from the land of Canaan and are now in Goshen.” He chose five of his brothers and presented them before Pharaoh.Pharaoh asked the brothers, “What is your occupation?”“Your servants are shepherds,” they replied to Pharaoh, “just as our fathers were.” They also said to him, “We have come to live here for a while, because the famine is severe in Canaan and your servants' flocks have no pasture. So now, please let your servants settle in Goshen.”Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Your father and your brothers have come to you, and the land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and your brothers in the best part of the land. Let them live in Goshen. And if you know of any among them with special ability, put them in charge of my own livestock.”Then Joseph brought his father Jacob in and presented him before Pharaoh. After Jacob blessed Pharaoh, Pharaoh asked him, “How old are you?”And Jacob said to Pharaoh, “The years of my pilgrimage are a hundred and thirty. My years have been few and difficult, and they do not equal the years of the pilgrimage of my fathers.” Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh and went out from his presence.So Joseph settled his father and his brothers in Egypt and gave them property in the best part of the land, the district of Rameses, as Pharaoh directed. Joseph also provided his father and his brothers and all his father's household with food, according to the number of their children.There was no food, however, in the whole region because the famine was severe; both Egypt and Canaan wasted away because of the famine. Joseph collected all the money that was to be found in Egypt and Canaan in payment for the grain they were buying, and he brought it to Pharaoh's palace. When the money of the people of Egypt and Canaan was gone, all Egypt came to Joseph and said, “Give us food. Why should we die before your eyes? Our money is all gone.”“Then bring your livestock,” said Joseph. “I will sell you food in exchange for your livestock, since your money is gone.” So they brought their livestock to Joseph, and he gave them food in exchange for their horses, their sheep and goats, their cattle and donkeys. And he brought them through that year with food in exchange for all their livestock.When that year was over, they came to him the following year and said, “We cannot hide from our lord the fact that since our money is gone and our livestock belongs to you, there is nothing left for our lord except our bodies and our land. Why should we perish before your eyes—we and our land as well? Buy us and our land in exchange for food, and we with our land will be in bondage to Pharaoh. Give us seed so that we may live and not die, and that the land may not become desolate.”So Joseph bought all the land in Egypt for Pharaoh. The Egyptians, one and all, sold their fields, because the famine was too severe for them. The land became Pharaoh's, and Joseph reduced the people to servitude, from one end of Egypt to the other. However, he did not buy the land of the priests, because they received a regular allotment from Pharaoh and had food enough from the allotment Pharaoh gave them. That is why they did not sell their land.Joseph said to the people, “Now that I have bought you and your land today for Pharaoh, here is seed for you so you can plant the ground. But when the crop comes in, give a fifth of it to Pharaoh. The other four-fifths you may keep as seed for the fields and as food for yourselves and your households and your children.”“You have saved our lives,” they said. “May we find favor in the eyes of our lord; we will be in bondage to Pharaoh.”So Joseph established it as a law concerning land in Egypt—still in force today—that a fifth of the produce belongs to Pharaoh. It was only the land of the priests that did not become Pharaoh's.Now the Israelites settled in Egypt in the region of Goshen. They acquired property there and were fruitful and increased greatly in number.Jacob lived in Egypt seventeen years, and the years of his life were a hundred and forty-seven.

Sermon Notes Can I trust God to come through in time? Genesis 25:19-20 NIV "This is the account of the family line of Abraham's son Isaac. Abraham became the father of Isaac, and Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah, daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan Aram and sister of Laban the Aramean." Genesis 25:21 NIV "Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife because she was childless. The Lord answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant." Genesis 25:22 NIV "The babies jostled each other within her, and she said, 'Why is this happening to me?' So she went to inquire of the Lord." Genesis 25:23 NIV "The Lord said to her, 'Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.'" Genesis 25:24-26 NIV "When the time came for her to give birth, there were twin boys in her womb. The first to come out was red, and his whole body was like a hairy garment, so they named him Esau. After this, his brother came out, with his hand grasping Esau's heel; so he was named Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when Rebekah gave birth to them." Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah (vs. 20) & Isaac was sixty years old when Rebekah gave birth to them (vs. 26). Why does it often seem that God's time is not my time? Psalms 31:14-15a NIV "But I trust in you, Lord; I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands…" Genesis 25:27 NIV "The boys grew up, and Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country, while Jacob was content to stay at home among the tents." Genesis 25:28 NIV "Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob." Genesis 25:29-30 NIV "Once, when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, "Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished!" (That is why he was also called Edom.)" If we fail to plan, we might as well plan to fail. Genesis 25:31 NIV "Jacob replied, 'First sell me your birthright.'" Genesis 25:32 NIV "'Look, I am about to die,' Esau said. 'What good is the birthright to me?'" Our habits reveal our values and shape our character. Genesis 25:33-34a NIV "But Jacob said, 'Swear to me first.' So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank and then got up and left." Genesis 25:34b NIV "So Esau despised his birthright." "When we get what we want, what we want often gets us." – Alan Ahlgrim "The happiest days of my life were coming home and hearing six different people say 'Daddy.' Happiest days of my life, Forget the money, forget the cars, even forget the championships. When I lost those days, I was all the way down. When I lost that from being stupid, it killed me." – Shaquille O'Neal P - Physically I - Intellectually E - Emotionally S- Spiritually Acts 3:19 NIV "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,"

Genesis 30:25–31:55 After Rachel gave birth to Joseph, Jacob said to Laban, “Send me on my way so I can go back to my own homeland. Give me my wives and children, for whom I have served you, and I will be on my way. You know how much work I've done for you.” But Laban said to him, “If I have found favor in your eyes, please stay. I have learned by divination that the Lord has blessed me because of you.” He added, “Name your wages, and I will pay them.” Jacob said to him, “You know how I have worked for you and how your livestock has fared under my care. The little you had before I came has increased greatly, and the Lord has blessed you wherever I have been. But now, when may I do something for my own household?” “What shall I give you?” he asked. “Don't give me anything,” Jacob replied. “But if you will do this one thing for me, I will go on tending your flocks and watching over them: Let me go through all your flocks today and remove from them every speckled or spotted sheep, every dark-colored lamb and every spotted or speckled goat. They will be my wages. And my honesty will testify for me in the future, whenever you check on the wages you have paid me. Any goat in my possession that is not speckled or spotted, or any lamb that is not dark-colored, will be considered stolen.” “Agreed,” said Laban. “Let it be as you have said.” That same day he removed all the male goats that were streaked or spotted, and all the speckled or spotted female goats (all that had white on them) and all the dark-colored lambs, and he placed them in the care of his sons. Then he put a three-day journey between himself and Jacob, while Jacob continued to tend the rest of Laban's flocks. Jacob, however, took fresh-cut branches from poplar, almond and plane trees and made white stripes on them by peeling the bark and exposing the white inner wood of the branches. Then he placed the peeled branches in all the watering troughs, so that they would be directly in front of the flocks when they came to drink. When the flocks were in heat and came to drink, they mated in front of the branches. And they bore young that were streaked or speckled or spotted. Jacob set apart the young of the flock by themselves, but made the rest face the streaked and dark-colored animals that belonged to Laban. Thus he made separate flocks for himself and did not put them with Laban's animals. Whenever the stronger females were in heat, Jacob would place the branches in the troughs in front of the animals so they would mate near the branches, but if the animals were weak, he would not place them there. So the weak animals went to Laban and the strong ones to Jacob. In this way the man grew exceedingly prosperous and came to own large flocks, and female and male servants, and camels and donkeys. Jacob heard that Laban's sons were saying, “Jacob has taken everything our father owned and has gained all this wealth from what belonged to our father.” And Jacob noticed that Laban's attitude toward him was not what it had been. Then the Lord said to Jacob, “Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you.” So Jacob sent word to Rachel and Leah to come out to the fields where his flocks were. He said to them, “I see that your father's attitude toward me is not what it was before, but the God of my father has been with me. You know that I've worked for your father with all my strength, yet your father has cheated me by changing my wages ten times. However, God has not allowed him to harm me. If he said, ‘The speckled ones will be your wages,' then all the flocks gave birth to speckled young; and if he said, ‘The streaked ones will be your wages,' then all the flocks bore streaked young. So God has taken away your father's livestock and has given them to me. “In breeding season I once had a dream in which I looked up and saw that the male goats mating with the flock were streaked, speckled or spotted. The angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob.' I answered, ‘Here I am.' And he said, ‘Look up and see that all the male goats mating with the flock are streaked, speckled or spotted, for I have seen all that Laban has been doing to you. I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed a pillar and where you made a vow to me. Now leave this land at once and go back to your native land.'” Then Rachel and Leah replied, “Do we still have any share in the inheritance of our father's estate? Does he not regard us as foreigners? Not only has he sold us, but he has used up what was paid for us. Surely all the wealth that God took away from our father belongs to us and our children. So do whatever God has told you.” Then Jacob put his children and his wives on camels, and he drove all his livestock ahead of him, along with all the goods he had accumulated in Paddan Aram, to go to his father Isaac in the land of Canaan. When Laban had gone to shear his sheep, Rachel stole her father's household gods. Moreover, Jacob deceived Laban the Aramean by not telling him he was running away. So he fled with all he had, crossed the Euphrates River, and headed for the hill country of Gilead. On the third day Laban was told that Jacob had fled. Taking his relatives with him, he pursued Jacob for seven days and caught up with him in the hill country of Gilead. Then God came to Laban the Aramean in a dream at night and said to him, “Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad.” Jacob had pitched his tent in the hill country of Gilead when Laban overtook him, and Laban and his relatives camped there too. Then Laban said to Jacob, “What have you done? You've deceived me, and you've carried off my daughters like captives in war. Why did you run off secretly and deceive me? Why didn't you tell me, so I could send you away with joy and singing to the music of timbrels and harps? You didn't even let me kiss my grandchildren and my daughters goodbye. You have done a foolish thing. I have the power to harm you; but last night the God of your father said to me, ‘Be careful not to say anything to Jacob, either good or bad.' Now you have gone off because you longed to return to your father's household. But why did you steal my gods?” Jacob answered Laban, “I was afraid, because I thought you would take your daughters away from me by force. But if you find anyone who has your gods, that person shall not live. In the presence of our relatives, see for yourself whether there is anything of yours here with me; and if so, take it.” Now Jacob did not know that Rachel had stolen the gods. So Laban went into Jacob's tent and into Leah's tent and into the tent of the two female servants, but he found nothing. After he came out of Leah's tent, he entered Rachel's tent. Now Rachel had taken the household gods and put them inside her camel's saddle and was sitting on them. Laban searched through everything in the tent but found nothing. Rachel said to her father, “Don't be angry, my lord, that I cannot stand up in your presence; I'm having my period.” So he searched but could not find the household gods. Jacob was angry and took Laban to task. “What is my crime?” he asked Laban. “How have I wronged you that you hunt me down? Now that you have searched through all my goods, what have you found that belongs to your household? Put it here in front of your relatives and mine, and let them judge between the two of us. “I have been with you for twenty years now. Your sheep and goats have not miscarried, nor have I eaten rams from your flocks. I did not bring you animals torn by wild beasts; I bore the loss myself. And you demanded payment from me for whatever was stolen by day or night. This was my situation: The heat consumed me in the daytime and the cold at night, and sleep fled from my eyes. It was like this for the twenty years I was in your household. I worked for you fourteen years for your two daughters and six years for your flocks, and you changed my wages ten times. If the God of my father, the God of Abraham and the Fear of Isaac, had not been with me, you would surely have sent me away empty-handed. But God has seen my hardship and the toil of my hands, and last night he rebuked you.” Laban answered Jacob, “The women are my daughters, the children are my children, and the flocks are my flocks. All you see is mine. Yet what can I do today about these daughters of mine, or about the children they have borne? Come now, let's make a covenant, you and I, and let it serve as a witness between us.” So Jacob took a stone and set it up as a pillar. He said to his relatives, “Gather some stones.” So they took stones and piled them in a heap, and they ate there by the heap. Laban called it Jegar Sahadutha, and Jacob called it Galeed. Laban said, “This heap is a witness between you and me today.” That is why it was called Galeed. It was also called Mizpah, because he said, “May the Lord keep watch between you and me when we are away from each other. If you mistreat my daughters or if you take any wives besides my daughters, even though no one is with us, remember that God is a witness between you and me.” Laban also said to Jacob, “Here is this heap, and here is this pillar I have set up between you and me. This heap is a witness, and this pillar is a witness, that I will not go past this heap to your side to harm you and that you will not go past this heap and pillar to my side to harm me. May the God of Abraham and the God of Nahor, the God of their father, judge between us.” So Jacob took an oath in the name of the Fear of his father Isaac. He offered a sacrifice there in the hill country and invited his relatives to a meal. After they had eaten, they spent the night there. Early the next morning Laban kissed his grandchildren and his daughters and blessed them. Then he left and returned home.

Genesis 25Then God said to Jacob, “Go up at once to Bethel and live there. Make an altar there to God, who appeared to you when you fled from your brother Esau.” 2 So Jacob told his household and all who were with him, “Get rid of the foreign gods you have among you. Purify yourselves and change your clothes. 3 Let us go up at once to Bethel. Then I will make an altar there to God, who responded to me in my time of distress and has been with me wherever I went.”4 So they gave Jacob all the foreign gods that were in their possession and the rings that were in their ears. Jacob buried them under the oak near Shechem 5 and they started on their journey. The surrounding cities were afraid of God, and they did not pursue the sons of Jacob.6 Jacob and all those who were with him arrived at Luz (that is, Bethel) in the land of Canaan. 7 He built an altar there and named the place El Bethel because there God had revealed himself to him when he was fleeing from his brother. 8 (Deborah, Rebekah's nurse, died and was buried under the oak below Bethel; thus it was named Oak of Weeping.)9 God appeared to Jacob again after he returned from Paddan Aram and blessed him. 10 God said to him, “Your name is Jacob, but your name will no longer be called Jacob; Israel will be your name.” So God named him Israel. 11 Then God said to him, “I am the Sovereign God. Be fruitful and multiply! A nation—even a company of nations—will descend from you; kings will be among your descendants! 12 The land I gave to Abraham and Isaac I will give to you. To your descendants I will also give this land.” 13 Then God went up from the place where he spoke with him. 14 So Jacob set up a sacred stone pillar in the place where God spoke with him. He poured out a drink offering on it, and then he poured oil on it. 15 Jacob named the place where God spoke with him Bethel.16 They traveled on from Bethel, and when Ephrath was still some distance away, Rachel went into labor—and her labor was hard. 17 When her labor was at its hardest, the midwife said to her, “Don't be afraid, for you are having another son.” 18 With her dying breath, she named him Ben Oni. But his father called him Benjamin instead. 19 So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). 20 Jacob set up a marker over her grave; it is the Marker of Rachel's Grave to this day.21 Then Israel traveled on and pitched his tent beyond Migdal Eder. 22 While Israel was living in that land, Reuben went to bed with Bilhah, his father's concubine, and Israel heard about it.Jacob had twelve sons:23 The sons of Leah were Reuben, Jacob's firstborn, as well as Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun.24 The sons of Rachel were Joseph and Benjamin.25 The sons of Bilhah, Rachel's servant, were Dan and Naphtali.26 The sons of Zilpah, Leah's servant, were Gad and Asher.These were the sons of Jacob who were born to him in Paddan Aram.27 So Jacob came back to his father Isaac in Mamre, to Kiriath Arba (that is, Hebron), where Abraham and Isaac had stayed. 28 Isaac lived to be 180 years old. 29 Then Isaac breathed his last and joined his ancestors. He died an old man who had lived a full life. His sons Esau and Jacob buried him.

Jacob has resolved his conflict with Laban and now returns to the land of Canaan. He faces another unresolved conflict, however. He must pass near the region where his twin brother Esau lives to return home. After being met by some angels of God and declaring that place "God's camp," Jacob begins working a strategy to know if he can make peace with Esau. Twenty years have passed since Jacob cheated Esau out of the family blessing. He did this by pretending to be Esau, fooling their blind father, Isaac. Esau became murderous in response (Genesis 27). When their mother Rebekah learned of Esau's plan to kill Jacob, he had literally run for his life to Laban's household in Paddan-Aram

The Washington Monument is a massive column 555 feet tall. It was erected to honor George Washington, the first President of the United States. Many cultures have erected pillars as memorials, including Rome, China and India. In the Pacific Northwest, Native American Tribes created pillars we commonly call “totem poles.” It shouldn't surprise us then, that the bible character Jacob also erected a pillar.  Genesis 35:9-14 says, ‘After Jacob returned from Paddan Aram, God appeared to him again and blessed him. God said to him, “Your name is Jacob, but you will no longer be called Jacob; your name will be Israel. '” So he named him Israel. And God said to him, “I am God Almighty; be fruitful and increase in number. A nation and a community of nations will come from you, and kings will come from your body. The land I gave to Abraham and Isaac I also give to you, and I will give this land to your descendants after you.” Then God went up from him at the place where he had talked with him. Jacob set up a stone pillar at the place where God had talked with him, and he poured out a drink offering on it; he also poured oil on it.' (NIV) Jacob's pillar commemorated God's promise to him. That promise was fulfilled by the ancient nation of Israel, culminating in the coming of Jesus, the King of Kings. The next time you see a pillar, remember that God keeps his promises. How to leave a review: https://www.sparkingfaith.com/rate-and-review/ Please provide feedback and suggestions at: https://www.sparkingfaith.com/feedback/ Bumper music “Landing Place” performed by Mark July, used under license from Shutterstock.

Relevant Verses: Genesis 32-36 Theme: A Changed Life Leading Question: What if victory looks more like being defeated? What if strength feels more like being weak? After his wrestling match with the unnamed man at Jabbok, Jacob was told: “Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed” (Gen 32:29, NASB). This change of name takes place not once but twice. After the encounter with Esau, and the episode of Dina and Shechem, God told Jacob to go to Bethel. Then we read: “After Jacob returned from Paddan Aram, God ...

Genesis 35: Return to the House of God | Jacob settles in Bethel, where he first encountered God. Jacob experience loss in his journeys, as he loses his wife Rachel and his father Isaac.Journey 3 | Foundations. Our third journey brings us to back to the foundations of the faith, and delivers some of the greatest stories and characters in the Bible. Genesis recounts the back story for all mankind and begins God's plan for redemption. Daniel presents phenomenal prophecies and the big picture of God's Kingdom, and Romans lays out the heart of the gospel with powerful answers to tough questions. This is Foundations. (84 days)Teacher: Kris LanghamAbout TTW: When the Bible is confusing, Through the Word explains it with clear and concise audio guides for every chapter. The TTW Podcast follows 19 Journeys covering every book and chapter in the Bible. Each journey is an epic adventure through several Bible books, as your favorite pastors explain each chapter with clear explanation and insightful application. Understand the Bible in just ten minutes a day, and join us for all 19 Journeys on the TTW podcast or TTW app!Get the App: https://throughtheword.orgContact: https://throughtheword.org/contactDonate: https://throughtheword.org/givingGenesis 35 Themes: return to God, start over, JacobGenesis 35 Tags: Bethel, go back to the beginning, Paddan Aram, Jacob name changed to Israel, God Almighty, El Shaddai, covenant reaffirmed, Rachel dies, Isaac dies, Benjamin, bury your foreign godsKey Verses: Quotes: Audio & Text © 2011-2021 Through the Word™ Inc. All rights reserved worldwide.Bible Quotes: The Holy Bible New International Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.

“Ebenezer” means 'stone of help'. Aspects of this covenant arrangement between Jacob and Laban including its memorial monument and location will prove significant in ways these two could never have imagined. Nevertheless, the redemptive purposes of God are revealed in the course of scripture foreshadowed by events in this chapter of Jacob's exodus from Paddan-Aram unto Canaan. Though Laban and Jacob come to terms of relative peace in our passage today, there remains great differences between them. Jacob has turned his face toward the promises and protection of the God of his fathers in willing repentance, while Laban has been brought to heel by the warnings of Yahweh in his actions only. Ultimately Laban remains self serving. This difference in heart condition is apparent in their exchange at Gilead which will be named for this covenant ceremony. Jacob, as the called and anointed covenant son is protected from his long time oppressor in this event even as he is consecrated unto the purposes of the greater covenant of grace. God is purifying His son and subduing His enemies. In this ceremony we witness the gracious hand of God guiding Jacob home and spreading a table before him in the presence of his enemies (Ps 23:5). As he ate bread with his kinsmen saying 'goodbye' to the exile and oppression of the land of Laban, Jacob welcomed the call to journey unto the promised land of his fathers. Other passages of scripture are illuminated by this event as well... Consider, for instance, Proverbs chapter 16 in light of Jacob vs. Laban as you are able, but for now verse 7 particularly: “When a man's ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him...” Jacob had entered Paddan-Aram 20 years ago in subservient fear but the tables have turned by virtue of the gracious calling of God.

Jacob probably never imagined all that would be awaiting him in Paddan Aram, but those 20 years there would be challenging years. In this episode 30, we see how Jacob builds a family, not just with the one he loves but with other women out of obligation for the sake of following the custom and pleasing wives who want to build a family.  In the end, God stills makes Himself known and Jacob is given instructions on what to do next.Website: www.colettecorrea.com

Jacob's journey to Paddan Aram started. One night he gets a dream from God confirming that He is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.  God reiterates to Jacob the covenant that He had established  with his grandfather Abraham and father Isaac. This episode 29 encourages us in many ways, as we look at God's appearance and learn from Jacob's response. Several points are drawn to encourages what we can learn from God and Jacob from the foundational study passage.Website: www.colettecorrea.com

Trickery or as some would call it flat out deception seems to be a familiar theme surrounding Jacob. Genesis 28-30 is centered around Jacob and his Uncle Laban. Where deceive or be deceived may be a fitting title to describe Jacob's family mantra. When Jacob made it to Paddan Aram, he met his Uncle Laban along with his daughters Leah and Rachel. Now we are going to explore the events of this “Family Reunion”. This week we also feature a special guest, Daniel Bellamy. Be Blessed and enjoy! Please follow, like and share our podcast with a friend or family member!

Can you believe it? Husker football starts on Saturday! For the sake of example only, allow me to paint an awful scenario. What if the Huskers lose their opener to South Alabama? Then they follow that with a heart breaker in Colorado? Then, they come back flat and Northern Illinois shocks them? And then in their despair lose the Big Ten opener to Illinois, a bottom feeder? They follow that loss by getting crushed by Ohio State. How many losses could you take before you give up on the team? In Sunday's passage in Genesis 35-36, Jacob suffered a string of losses. But he didn't lose games, He lost people: The nurse who raised him (Genesis 35:8) His beloved wife. (Genesis 35:16-21) His father. (Genesis 35:27-29) On top of these losses, Jacob's oldest son, Reuben, had relations with one of his concubines. (Genesis 35:22). Finally, Jacob's brother, Esau, moved away. (Genesi 36:6-8) So in effect, Jacob lost these people. Jacob was hemorrhaging relationships What kept him from giving up on life? God did. He was present in Jacob's life. Then God appeared to Jacob again when he came from Paddan-Aram, and He blessed him. God said to him, “Your name is Jacob; You shall no longer be called Jacob, But Israel shall be your name.” Thus He called him Israel. Genesis 35:9-10 And He promised to bless Jacob. God also said to him, “I am God Almighty; Be fruitful and multiply; A nation and a company of nations shall come from you, And kings shall come forth from you. “The land which I gave to Abraham and Isaac, I will give it to you, And I will give the land to your descendants after you.” Genesis 35:11-12 Whether it is death or moves or busyness, life has a way of taking relationships from us. When our relational losses mount, we don't have to give up. Like Jacob, God's presence and His promises will sustain us.