Foundations Week 4, Day 1

Scripture Read:  Genesis 27 - 28
Title: Deception, Deceit and a Blessing
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H.E.A.R. Entry
(H) Highlight verse::  "And he dreamed, and behold, there was a ladder set up on earth and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it!  And behold the LORD stood above it and said, 'I am the LORD, the God of Abraham your father, and the God of Isaac.'."  Genesis 28:12-13a

(E) Explain: The soap opera continues.  The dysfunction develops more.  Jacob continues in his deceptive plan to get the inheritance that he conned his brother out of giving up.  Jacob deceives his father, who is going blind, by pretending to be Esau, thus receiving a blessing from his father.  Having received the blessing, Esau becomes infuriated and says that once their father is dead, he is going to kill Jacob.  Rebekah hears this and sends Jacob to her brother, Laban's home so he will be safe and also to find a wife.  Esau marries an Ishmaelite.  Jacob has a dream about a ladder, where he is also blessed by God .  He responds with worship and makes a vow to God.  He names the place where he had his dream Bethel, which means house of God.
THE MEANING OF THE DREAM
The dream is significant and intended to encourage, assure and bless Jacob in his time of despair.  There are three features to this dream that we should focus our attention.

1. The Ladder – The ladder symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth.  This ladder represents the passage (so to speak) or link between this earth and God’s Kingdom.  God and his angels have access to this ladder and they are actively using it in this world.
2. The Angels – In the O.T. Angels are typically displayed as messengers, protectors or agents who look after the nations.  The angels going up and down the ladder show that even in the midst of despair and depression Jacob is still being watched over and protected.  He may feel vulnerable, alone and uncertain but the presence of angels will be with him and he will be protected.
   
3. The LORD – The LORD is depicted as standing above this ladder.  This shows the sovereignty of God.  He is watching over what is going on in the earth.  He is specifically watching over Jacob.  We also should note that the angels must report to him and He instructs them in what they are to do.  His presence also is a way to show that God will bless him as He passes the promise on to Jacob.  God assures him that He is the God of his Father (Isaac) and his grandfather (Abraham).  He will bless him by giving him land, descendants and blessing.  

(A) Application: This passage continually reminds me of God’s power, protection, and presence amidst his people.  It is a wonderful reminder that God is present and active with his people.  It is vitally important to be sensitive to God’s presence.  Whether you feel him or not, He is present with us as I speak.  He is in the midst of his people right now.  I am encouraged by this passage because it helps me be sensitive to God's presence in my life today.  I am inspired because I know God still speaks through visions, dreams and his Word.  He is active in this world and in my life.  When God does show up my life I know that I am changed and transformed into his likeness, and for his glory.

(R) Respond:  Lord, may I live a life of integrity before you.  I pray that when I feel the temptation to manipulate or deceive others for my selfish gain and benefit, that I submit myself to you and resist this temptation.  May I be a blessing to you and may you bless me according to your loving-kindness.