Dedicated to a fresh start every day, our devotion today is drawing inspiration from the intriguing chapter of Genesis 35. As we journey through this text, we uncover a spirited narrative of promise, transformation, and redemption.
Genesis 35 invites us into the personal transformation journey of Jacob, a man who habitually grappled with God and humans throughout his life. This chapter marks a key pivot in Jacob’s spiritual progression, delineating his obedient response to God’s call to “Arise, go up to Bethel and dwell there.” (Genesis 35:1). Herein lies our first lesson – obedience to God’s call sets us on the path toward divine encounters.
As Jacob journeyed toward Bethel, he ordered his household to put away their foreign gods. It was a call for sanctification that purged them from their past practices as they prepared themselves for a divine encounter. We too are often called to leave behind what is old and unfitting as we prepare ourselves daily for communion with God.
Then came the profound moment at Bethel where God made Himself known anew to Jacob. Thereby refreshing His promise to make Jacob not only fruitful but also father to a great nation (Genesis 35:11). Against the backdrop of our own lives, this reiterates that no matter our shortcomings or failings; His promises stand irrevocable upon repentance and change.
The death of Rachel and Isaac in Genesis 35 serves as poignant reminders of life’s transience and challenges us to live each day consciously under God’s promises while deeply appreciating our loved ones.
In summary, Genesis 35 offers us powerful lessons on obedience, sanctification, transformation – all underlining God’s unfailing promises. It inspires us daily that just like Jacob; we are all works-in-progress. With trusting hearts open to change, we experience the fullness of His love, grace, and promises. May we all continue to grow in faithfulness, love, and obedience as we journey through life.
