Great Challenges and Ordinary People

An astute philosopher observed, "There are no great men, only great challenges that ordinary men are forced by circumstances to overcome." Jacob's prospective father-in-law tricked him into marrying his oldest daughter Leah instead of Rachel, the girl he loved. If he wanted Rachel, he would have to work seven more years for her.

 

Honoring the terms of the contract would be a great challenge, but to finish it without harboring deep-seated anger and bitterness would be a greater challenge. Laban tricked Jacob with the old bait-and-switch tactic, but he promised that Rachel would be Jacob’s wife when he finished the wedding week festivities with Leah.

Jacob’s challenge was maintaining an accepting attitude toward Leah, knowing she was not the woman he loved. Another significant challenge would be balancing the earlier covenant he made with the Lord God while maintaining an acceptable attitude toward his father-in-law. God will give us grace, strength and wisdom for contending with all of life’s challenges. Praise God!