Reading
- Gen. 34:1-35:29
Devotional
In these two chapters GOD tells us three sad events that occurred in Jacob’s family. First, Jacob’s daughter Dinah is severely mistreated by Shechem the Hivite. Second, Jacob’s wife Rachel—whom he loved most—died while giving birth to their son Benjamin. Third, Jacob’s father Isaac dies. These were very difficult days for Jacob and his family.
Life is made up of good days and bad days. Some people have more good days than others, but every one of us will suffer through disappointing times in our life. It is easy to enjoy the good times, to rejoice and be happy. But it is during the difficult, sad and disappointing times that our faith is tested, that we grow, and that we truly realize that we can control very little in life and that we are totally dependent upon GOD.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
(Jam. 1:2-4)
Whenever something bad happens to us it should serve as a reminder that we need GOD every day, not just when times are bad but during the good times too. The good news is that GOD cares greatly about you and He wants what is best for you. During sad and difficult days we should cling even more to GOD and ask for His help to make it through the current trial. GOD cares when we are sad. He even keeps up with our tears. As the Psalmist says:
You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book? When I cry out to You, then my enemies will turn back; this I know, because God is for me. In God (I will praise His word), in the LORD (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
(Psalm 56:8-11)
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
(Psalm 23:1-6)
