Genesis 31:47 Laban called it Jegar Sahadutha, and Jacob called it Galeed.
My memory is notoriously awful, but I’m fairly certain I remember using Gen 31:49, more than once, as a positive scripture for someone who would not be physically close to me (going on a trip, moving, going to college, etc). However, as I read it in context of Laban and Jacob’s ongoing mess, I see that it seems to be used more as a threat than a blessing.
Genesis 31:48 Laban said, “This heap is a witness between you and me today.” That is why it was called Galeed.
Essentially, Laban seems to be saying, “God’s watching you. If you cheat me, He’ll know, and I’ll get you..” That’s ironic on a number of levels given all that we’ve seen of both Laban and Jacob. But my question is this: does the original use of the verse in context negate my ability to use it as a blessing out of context?
Genesis 31:49 It was also called Mizpah, because he said, “May the Lord keep watch between you and me when we are away from each other.
Precious Savior, Hebrews 4:12 assures us that Your word is active and alive. Does that mean that I can use Gen 31:49 as a blessing for those who will be away, even though the original context does not seem to be a positive one? I think so. I take Romans 8:28 to heart: “… in all things God works for the good of those who love him,” but I don’t want to play fast and loose with Your word, Lord. Help me to quote scripture wisely, appropriately, and well. Amen.
Genesis 31:50 If you mistreat my daughters or if you take any wives besides my daughters, even though no one is with us, remember that God is a witness between you and me.”
Have a blessed day.