God’s Grace in the Midst of Strained Family Relationships

Genesis 30 shows the messy, tense reality of Leah and Rachel’s relationship. Jealousy, competition, and longing for children dominate their household. Leah feels unloved; Rachel feels desperate. They manipulate, compete, and use surrogates to secure favor. On the surface, it’s a story of rivalry—but beneath it, God is at work. Even in their flawed strategies … Continue reading God’s Grace in the Midst of Strained Family Relationships

Seen by God, Saved by Grace

In Genesis 29 and Luke 2:8–20, God reveals Himself as the One who draws near to the overlooked. Leah is unloved and unwanted, yet “the LORD saw” her affliction and showed compassion. Shepherds—ordinary, unimpressive, and ignored—are chosen to hear the first announcement of the Savior’s birth. From a painful marriage to a quiet field outside … Continue reading Seen by God, Saved by Grace

Grasping God’s Promise in the Wrong Way

Genesis 27 Genesis 27 is uncomfortable, because it shows a covenant family that knows God’s promises—and still refuses to trust God’s ways. Every major character in this chapter is spiritually compromised. Isaac is driven by appetite and favoritism. Rebekah is ruled by fear. Jacob is willing to deceive. Esau is reckless and godless. Yet over … Continue reading Grasping God’s Promise in the Wrong Way

Pain that Prompts Worship – Part Two

Let’s be honest. Our earthly pilgrimage often involves pain. Genesis 47:1-12 does not fit our notion of a good testimony. In this passage, Jacob tells Pharaoh that his life has been short and sour. That isn’t a very good case for Christianity is it? The thrust of much evangelism today is that trusting Christ and … Continue reading Pain that Prompts Worship – Part Two

The Pain that Prompts Our Worship – The Life of Jacob

Steven Curtis Chapman has released more than 20 records. He’s won five grammys and seven “Artist of the Year” dove awards. He is certainly recognized as one of the finest artists in the Christian music industry. However, none of that mattered a couple of years ago when his five year old daughter, Maria, died after … Continue reading The Pain that Prompts Our Worship – The Life of Jacob