Jacob's struggle began in his mother's womb. After Rebekah became pregnant with twins, a battle was fought in her womb. The sons fought each other, so the mother asked God why. The Lord's answer showed that the quarrel between the brothers was greater than she had anticipated, and our salvation depended on the victory that the Most High would give to one of them, the one who would become the firstborn. Esau won the dispute, but Rebekah was not satisfied.

In her question, Rebekah heard: And the Lord said to her: “Two nations are in your womb, two peoples shall be separated from your body; one people shall be stronger than the other, and the older shall serve the younger” (Genesis 25.23). Before anyone judges the Lord for what He has said, it is important to remember that the things that are not revealed belong to Him (Deuteronomy 29.29). We'll get the answer from Heaven when we get there!

Studying the context of the highlighted verse, we see that Jacob was fleeing from Esau's presence, but, for me, the threat made by the firstborn to the youngest was just a way for God to lead Jacob to Haran, the land of his grandfather, Abraham. There, he needed to find the sisters Leah and Rachel to bear his offspring (Genesis, chapter 29). We don't know the reasons for what happens to us, but God does. Now, if the Almighty is in charge of His work, why try to understand what happens along the way? The Father knows how to guide us!

The stone Jacob used as a pillow when he lay down to sleep had a purpose in the Kingdom of God, as did the one Moses struck twice in the desert - an action that prevented him from entering Canaan. The Bible says: and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ (1 Corinthians 10.4). Nobody just happens to marry someone and then hates them!

Happy are those who, even in the midst of adversity, pray and hope in the Lord, remembering the Word they have received and from which they have not separated. These people know that, at the end of the age, they will be rewarded and have a guaranteed place in the Kingdom of Heaven. On the other hand, the inconsequential will regret it forever. So no matter how much you suffer from the weight you carry or the shame you face, go all the way. Bliss belongs to you!

The oil - the anointing - on the stone was confirmation of the covenant proposed by the Most High. With it, Jacob would have access to the Lord in times of need. Believe in God's Word and be happy now and forever. The work that the Lord has set before you is more important than the riches and pleasures of the world. Being part of the eternal plan of redemption for humanity is your share in eternal life.

God will always give more to those who know how to be faithful to Him even unto death (Revelation 2:10), because the Father's love has chosen you to be His partner in His work. Do you want more than that? There is no such possibility. Anything you do without heavenly direction will be little. However, by following the Almighty's command, you will become one with Him.

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares