Read: Genesis 32-35
I apologize for today’s late publication. After work I was feeling very tired and used the short break I had to rest my mind and body. Then I spent the evening playing with my toddler and watching my six-month-old try her absolute hardest to crawl. I keep telling her she can slow down. Tonight, I also enjoyed all the baby snuggles as I held her to sleep. I literally just lifted my head up and saw a photo of her on my digital frame from when she was one week old. My mama heart can’t take it.
Anyways, today’s reading was… well, you know if you read it yourself. Two verses really stood out to me.
For a little context, these passages are about Jacob. The book of Genesis is traditionally understood to have been written by Moses to record the early history of God’s people. In these specific chapters, Jacob is returning home after many years away and is preparing to meet his brother Esau, whom he previously wronged. Jacob is fearful of what might happen and humbles himself before God.
“I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant.” -Genesis 32:10
Jacob recognizes something we all should: we are completely unworthy of the kindness, grace, and faithfulness God shows us. We don’t deserve His mercy, yet He continues to pour it out. Ultimately, that love is most clearly seen through Christ.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” -John 3:16
The second verse that stood out comes after Jacob and Esau finally meet again. Instead of anger and revenge, there is reconciliation and love.
“Please accept the present that was brought to you, for God has been gracious to me and I have all I need.” -Genesis 33:11
Jacob acknowledges that everything he has comes from God’s grace. It is also symbolic of wronging our Father; He will accept us with open arms upon our return to Him. No sin is too large for God; He loves you and wants you to return to Him no matter what.
What a beautiful reminder for us. God has been gracious to us, and because of that, we should strive to be gracious and loving toward others.
Discussion Questions
- What does Jacob and Esau’s reconciliation in Genesis 33 teach us about forgiveness?
- Jacob says God has been gracious and that he has all he needs. What are some ways you have seen God’s grace and provision in your own life?
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A Note from the Author
Hello everyone,
I wanted to take a moment to share a bit about the Bible verse studies, devotionals, and prayers that I put together. While I strive to offer meaningful insights and reflections, it’s important to clarify that I am not a trained or licensed biblical professional. My goal is not to provide expert theological advice but to share my personal knowledge, beliefs, and experiences as I read and reflect on the Holy Bible.
The insights I offer come from my own understanding and spiritual journey. I approach these reflections with the intention of sharing what personally resonates with me, what I’ve learned through my own study of Scripture, and what the Holy Spirit is sharing through me. I hope these thoughts are helpful and encouraging, but they are based on my personal perspective rather than formal theological training.
This specific Bible study is based off the book A Beautiful Year in the Bible The 52-Week Bible Study for Women by a series of wonderful authors Copyrighted by Alabaster Creative Inc. I do not own the rights to this book and am not claiming to. I am using the book to create my own version of the Bible in 365 days and continue to direct God’s word towards women, more specifically mothers.
Thank you for your understanding and for joining me in this journey of faith and reflection.
Blessings,
Maria Wilcoxon
*The header image is not mine and was taken from Pinterest
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