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!  

Obstructions? Reality Check Required

Obstructions that seem to crowd each person's life journey can be fantasy smashers. No matter if you’re young and just beginning this journey or if you’ve been around awhile, obstacles become a major contender for blocking what you want to achieve. Every person has had hopes and dreams shattered by unexpected obstacles.

Jacob gladly agreed to work seven years for Rachel. However, his prospective father-in-law gave him Leah, Rachel's older sister. Jacob was tricked into marrying the woman he didn’t love. When Jacob discovered this deception, it was too late. For another seven years, he could only imagine the happiness he would share with Rachel.    

          Do you think Jacob ever connected on how Esau had felt when he conspired with their mother in a scheme to steal Esau’s blessing and birth right? The old saying of “what goes around, comes around” certainly showed up in this situation to give an accounting for sin. Yet the Lord God faithfully shows up with his grace and mercy that is greater than our sins.