Scripture: Genesis 43:11-14
Key Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Jacob had a long history of relying on his own schemes rather than trusting in God. He lied to his faither to get Esau’s birthright; he lied to Laban when he tried to flee under the cover of darkness; he tried to bribe Esau when he returned; and when he thought Joseph had died he refused to trust God and instead turned inward and focused on his grief.
When faced with sending his sons back to Egypt, he reverted to his old ways—offering a bribe rather than trusting in God’s provision.
But, let’s take a moment to remember Jacob’s faith. God changed his name to Israel when he wrestled with the angel of the Lord because he had power with God and men.
Like Jacob, we often try to control our circumstances through our own abilities, plans, and strategies. But our own strength will always fall short. True peace comes when we surrender our plans to God and trust Him fully.
Application: Are you relying on your own strength to handle a difficult situation? Stop striving and start surrendering. Trust that God’s ways are higher and that He will provide.