Genesis 29:31 And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren.

32 And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will love me.

33 And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Because the LORD hath heard that I was hated, he hath therefore given me this son also: and she called his name Simeon.

34 And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Now this time will my husband be joined unto me, because I have born him three sons: therefore was his name called Levi.

35 And she conceived again, and bare a son: and she said, Now will I praise the LORD: therefore she called his name Judah; and left bearing.,

Introductory Thoughts

This passage demonstrates the kindness of our God. The story is not simply narrative involving God miraculously opening Leah’s womb, but also provides insight as to why He did. Because Leah was hated, God came to her aid, not once, not twice, not three times, but four times. It is common in scripture to find the Lord coming to the aid of His own. God will look even more favourably upon His children as the world refuses, rejects, and abuses them. Though disdained by the heathen and mocked of men for the Lord’s sake, God will never allow those forsaken by the world to be isolated from His blessings. Moses, hated by Egypt, found the Lord faithful in the wilderness. Jeremiah, hated because of his prophecies, found the Lord faithful in the dungeon. John, exiled to Patmos, heard the Lord speak to him and supernaturally received and wrote the final book of our Bible. God was faithful to His people then and remains so today.

Devotional thoughts

  •  (For children):Haman hated Mordecai because he would not bow down to him. Haman wanted to get rid of all of God’s people and even built a gallows on which to hang Mordecai. God would not allow Haman to fulfill his wicked plan and agenda. Haman was hanged on his own gallows and Mordecai was promoted to Haman’s position.
  •  (For everyone):Have you found yourself in times where you were despised by the world? Did you find the Lord faithful during those times? What did you learn about the Lord in those trying times?
  •  If we are hated for righteousness’ sake, the Lord will be faithful to bestow favour upon us. Does the same always hold true when we are hated because of some failure brought about by our own devices?

Prayer Thoughts

  •  Ask the Lord to grant you favour in times of isolation.
  • Ask the Lord to help you faithfully serve Him till death.

 

SONG: TBD

 

Quotes from the next volume

(VOLUME 3, WEEK 21)

Subject: Loyalty (con’t)

Loyalty is a godly trait, and like most godly traits, difficulties can accompany it.

David was loyal and his loyalty was contagious. Throughout his life, he had those who would attempt great feats in order to assist, protect, or be a blessing to him.