Genesis 30:41 Whenever the stronger females were in heat, Jacob would place the branches in the troughs in front of the animals so they would mate near the branches,
I’m not going to lie…when I first read yesterday’s and today’s verses, I thought Jacob was being sneaky again, was back to his old tricks. But commentary posits that while it’s possible that Jacob had some knowledge of animal reproduction, it is more likely that “Jacob did the best he knew, and God blessed it.”
Genesis 30:42a but if the animals were weak, he would not place them there.
I love the idea of doing the best you know how and allowing God to bless the results. I feel like that actually describes a lot of the ventures in my life–marriage, motherhood, teaching. Some days it feels like I am on fire and doing everything right–that’s God’s blessing. Some days it feels like more of a dumpster fire, where I have to apologize to everyone and try again tomorrow.
Genesis 30:42b So the weak animals went to Laban and the strong ones to Jacob.
Precious Savior, Thank You for Your daily presence in my life. Thank You for those days when I am doing the best I know how and Your abundant blessings are lavished upon me. Thank You also for those days when I mess up at every turn. You are still with me. You extend grace and compassion to me. Help me to be gentle with myself on those days. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.
Genesis 30:43 In this way the man grew exceedingly prosperous and came to own large flocks, and female and male servants, and camels and donkeys.
Have a blessed day.