Beginnings: A Study In GenesisSample

What does it say?

God told Jacob to return to Bethel. There, God renewed His promises with Jacob and gave him the name, Israel. 

What does it mean?

Difficult times were ahead for Jacob—the death of his beloved wife Rachel while giving birth to her second son Benjamin and later the death of his father. Two things helped prepare Jacob for the rough road ahead. First, God called Jacob to go back to a place of major spiritual significance, Bethel. He sought to strengthen Jacob by renewing His promises to him. Next, Jacob needed to remove false gods that had crept into his life and his family. Spiritual renewal required renewed commitment. God was drawing Jacob into an even deeper relationship, which would bring comfort in the days ahead.

How should I respond?

Some periods of life are more difficult than others. We seldom know ahead of time that we’re headed into a rough season until we are in the middle of it. The same two things that helped Jacob can still help us. Where is your “Bethel”? What places or events hold significance in your spiritual growth? Those are reminders that God is present and ever-faithful, even when life seems to fall apart. Then, where have you gotten off track and complacent in your relationship with God? What ungodly influence needs to be removed? God is patiently calling you back to Himself. He desires to give you the strength and comfort needed for everything you will face.