Genesis 32:7-8

New King James Version

So, Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed; and he divided the people that were with him, and the flocks and herds and camels, into two companies. And he said, “If Esau comes to the one company and attacks it, then the other company which is left will escape.”

For Your Encouragement 

 The offender runs when no one is pursuing them. That is the wisdom of the Akan people of Ghana. So true of everyone without Christ. You may not have related it, but why have you been running all your life? Why the lack of peace after all your accomplishments?

Jacob had grievously offended his elder brother Esau and robbed him of his blessings. After taking a long refuge with his uncle in Paddan Aram, Jacob prepares to return to the land of his father (Genesis 31:3). The Lord had made him rich with a large family and great wealth. Jacob looked forward to a good life back home, yet one thing eluded him—peace. He dreaded the wrath of Esau and the security of his family. Although Jacob prayed to God to rescue him, the man couldn’t shake off his fears. Finally, he rolled out an elaborate plan to mollify his brother—bribe him with a fat portion of his herd (32:13-16). It’s interesting how he arranged his family to meet Esau. I am so glad God does not play favoritism (Galatians 2:6).

God had settled the matter between Esau and Jacob, but Jacob did not know. When his brother came in peace, he was terrified. Jacob gave him a gift, but Esau did not need it. He had a good portion of his own. He only came to welcome his brother and accompany him and his family home safely, but Jacob was still running away in his heart, so he refused Esau’s cordiality. Does it sound familiar?

How long have you been running since you offended your parents or siblings? Why can’t you accept your friend’s forgiveness and embrace them again? How could you persist in trying to bribe your way to peace when God has worked it all for you in Christ (Romans 5:1-2)? Is not His peace enough to calm your guilty heart and mind in Christ Jesus?

You may dread the troubles of 2023, though you do not know any of them yet. Would you surrender your fears to Christ Jesus and embrace the New Year with the assurance of God’s presence to prosper you in His ways?

Just trust and obey Him in everything, holding firmly to His word, and He will give you success and make you prosperous in Christ (Joshua 1:6-9).

Crossover into the year 2023 with confidence in the liberty and grace Christ Jesus offers you. Amen!