"Jacob's Victory" by Kirk Hunt

And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep.

Genesis 28:10-11 KJV

Jacob arranged the rocks, just so. Alone and on the run, he enjoyed the luxury of sleeping on stone. On top of his restful bed, he had the comfort of his most recent victory.

Earlier that week, if not that day, Jacob successfully swindled his father to get Esau's blessing. Years earlier, he had cheated his twin brother out of his birthright in the first place. Jacob had won.

Of course, Jacob's victory meant he would never see his father or mother again in life. His brother had sworn a death oath against him. Alone and friendless, he fled the family homestead like a common criminal.

Jacob had used fraud, deceit and trickery to get what he wanted. God had already promised that he would become a great man and nation. Instead of seeking out God's direction and wisdom, Jacob orchestrated his own victory.

What God has promised, He will deliver. In joy. With peace. Without trickery. Without cheating.

Who's victory do you want? Yours or God's? One involves peace and joy, the other a stone mattress.

Think: Am I doing it my way, or God's way?

Pray: “Lord, guide me in Your way and path. I want Your victory, not my own.”

Copyright © May 2009, Kirk Hunt