Genesis Chapter 32
Don’t Always Assume The Worst.
Jacob is returning home to Canaan where his brother Esau lives. God told him to return and promised to be with Jacob and promised he would prosper there.
But as Jacob gets closer to home, the more he is inflicted with fear. God said he would be with him and he would prosper but we as humans always seem to assume the worst. Why? Guilt of the past? Guilt of sin we committed? Difficulty in trusting God?
I remember being in the hay mound at the farm and throwing hay down the chutes. I was all alone. I could hear creaking noises in the hay mound and my mind immediately went to the worst. I began to worry somebody evil was in the mound that shouldn’t be and fear came upon me!
Why do we assume the worst? In Jacob’s case, he has held within him the memory of how he deceived his brother Esau. The last words Jacob remembers Esau saying is that he would kill Jacob for his deception. So Jacob’s memory can’t erase that thought even though God said He’d protect him.
So Jacob goes out of his way to try and appease Esau in hopes Esau would find favor in Jacob and no longer seek revenge against him.
God, I wronged someone a long time ago and still, to this day, carry the memory of my wrongdoing. Lord, you have forgiven me and I pray for the day that I may encounter this individual and ask forgiveness from this person. Yes, I hold a fear within me and want your help. Thank you that you have forgiven me and make me a clean slate for you!
