Reading: Genesis 33

Jacob has learned humility and dependence. He still has some fear for Esau who before had decided to kill Jacob. But Jacob knows he should make peace with his brother. In faith he goes to meet him. He is very humble to Esau and is reconciled with him.  Why is Esau kind instead of angry at Jacob? It is the effect of the special favor of God. God has the hearts of men in his hand and turns them where He wills (Proverbs 21:1). Furthermore God answered the prayers of his servant Jacob.

 

Jacob and Esau separate. Esau returns to his own land of Seir, also called Edom, situated south-east of the Dead Sea. Jacob settles in the Promised Land, near the city Succoth, 16 kilometres east of the Jordan River. The church is back in the Promised Land and, at least for now, separated from ungodly culture and the worship of idols. In thankfulness Jacob makes an altar and worships the faithful God of the covenant. In true humility he names the altar El Elohe, meaning “The Lord is my help.”

 

Key text: Genesis 33:20 “Then he erected an altar there and called it El Elohe Israel.”

 

Question: Jacob had to learn humility. James 4:10 says “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.” How do you humble yourself in the sight of God?