Genesis, 32
21. And so the gifts went before him, but he himself lodged that night in the camp.
21. And so the gifts went before him, but he himself lodged that night in the camp.
Genesis 32 reports Jacob's preparation to meet his brother Esau, whom he had deceived and betrayed years earlier. The chapter narrates Jacob's struggle with a mysterious man, who some interpret as God. Jacob also sends gifts to Esau hoping to placate his wrath and reconcile with him. Below are five verses related to the themes of the chapter:
Psalm 34:19 - "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from all." This verse reflects Jacob's state of mind as he prepared to meet Esau. He was fearful and distressed, concerned about his brother's wrath and the possible consequences of his past acts.
Hosea 12:3-4 - "In the womb, he supplanted his brother, and in his strength fought with God. He fought with the angel and prevailed; he cried and pleased him. In Bethel he found him and spoke to us." This verse refers to Jacob's struggle with the mysterious man in Genesis 32, who some interpret as God or an angel sent by him. The struggle represents Jacob's effort to confront and overcome his past.
Proverbs 16:7 - "When the ways of man pleases the Lord, he makes even his enemies to have peace with him." This verse is relevant to Jacob's situation, who was trying to placate his brother Esau's wrath sending gifts and showing humility. The idea is that when a man pleases God, he can expect his enemies to be pacified and peace will be restored.
Ezekiel 36:26-"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will take from your flesh the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." This verse speaks of the transformation that God operates in the hearts of the people who seek Him. It is a relevant idea for the process of personal transformation that Jacob was going through, confronting his past and seeking reconciliation with his brother.
Galatians 6:7 - "Do not deceive you: God is not moiled from God; for what man sow will be reaping." This verse emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and divine justice. It is a warning to Jacob and all who seek to follow God so that they may remember that their choices and actions will have consequences, and that they must take responsibility for them.
“É sempre necessário ir para a frente, nunca para trás, na vida espiritual. O barco que pára em vez de ir adiante é empurrado para trás pelo vento.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina