Image from myjewishlearning.com
43 And the man increased exceedingly, and had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses. – Genesis 30:43
In this verse, the man is Jacob. The increase of his maidservants, manservants, cattle, and asses was great. The last time I posted about Jacob was almost four years ago in a post titled, “Work“. I encourage you to go back and read it.
Laban had essentially cheated Jacob during the whole time that Jacob lived with and worked for Laban. However, Jacob turned things around by making an agreement with Laban. Jacob would take the spotted and speckled sheep and goats and the black lambs. Read Genesis 30:37 to see how Jacob gained the upperhand on Laban.
Jacob became a very rich man. His cattle were very healthy and he had many slaves. Jacob had worked hard for what he had. However, Laban had always found a way to not keep his word to Jacob. I think Jacob finally had enough. God had caused the increase for Jacob. Further, Jacob was faithful to God. He had been honest with Laban.
Remember that Jacob, along with his mother, had tricked his father and brother into getting Esau’s blessing. Don’t feel too sorry for Jacob. The whole point here is to work hard, be faithful to God, and do what is right. God will honor your work and cause an increase. This does not mean that you are going to become very wealthy. You might. I don’t know the plans that God has for you. Only He knows those plans. Our treasure should not be stored here. It should be stored in heaven.
