Category Archives: Guide

Core Teaching, Discipline / Correction, Faith / Trusting God, Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Share the Good News, Study the Word, Submitted / Servant, Teachable

The Great Commission – Personal Discipleship Plan

This teaching is really a core part of our personal walk with Yeshua. Please take the time to read through it prayerfully, even though it may be a bit longer than average.

At Hearing From Jesus, we take the commands of our Lord very seriously and that certainly includes The Great Commission. In fact, it is this command that most directly inspires our ministry. We want to obey Yeshua and make disciples of all the nations.

Besides being the command of our Lord, it is also a natural desire we have in gratitude to Yahweh for His grace and forgiveness and also out of love for other people, who may be headed for eternal separation from Him in hell, unless they hear and study the true word of God.

Matthew 28:16-20

16But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. 17When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. 18And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

To learn more about the Great Commission given to us by Yeshua, we recommend you study our teaching, The Great Commission – Make Disciples Of All The Nations, before continuing with this teaching on building a personal discipleship plan.

Whether Hearing From Jesus is a primary source for your personal study and growth with the Lord or just another valuable reference site, we have structured our ministry to help you become a disciple, a learner, of Christ and then to prepare to go and make disciples of others. This last point is important… it should not be our goal to do the absolute minimum we can and still get into Heaven. Those who have this attitude are far from the kingdom of Heaven. Our goal is to grow spiritually to the point that we are feeding ourselves from Yahweh’s word and growing in our relationship with Him from now until we die. It is a journey that we never finish, but it transforms us along the way to become more like our Messiah and less like our old sinful nature. We are to learn well enough to then teach others effectively and help them become disciples as well… so they can , in turn, teach others.

Overwhelming? It can be. So, how do we begin such a task?

Let us begin by studying and then following the example of Yeshua. Likewise, we can review how others, like Paul or Moses or Elijah practiced discipleship. In all the examples I just mentioned, these servants of Yahweh knew the ultimate authority was the Creator, not a religious authority figure or scholars or traditions. We must seek to develop a personal relationship with Yahweh. We must not cling to traditions of men, even if they are taught by religious authority figures. The Pope, like the earthly head of every religion, is quite fallible and what he teaches must be tested against the word of Yah in the Bible. Sadly it often contradicts God’s word. We must test everything against the truth of the scripture and seek Yahweh in prayer consistently. To be a disciple of Christ we must be willing to put Him first, above and before all other parts of our lives and it will be hard. We must lose our own lives in order to find true life with Jesus.

Matthew 10:34-39

34“Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35“For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36and a man’s enemies will be the members of his household.

37“He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39“He who has found his life will lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake will find it.

Yeshua did not attend formal schooling or study at seminary. These things may be helpful, but are not necessary and for most of us, not practical. Yeshua studied the scriptures rigorously and with devotion since He was as child. So knowledgeable was He, that when He was twelve, He was amazing the scholars and teachers of the law.

Luke 2:46-47

46Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers.

If you are coming to know Yeshua later in life, do not worry. Use the time our Father has given you and get started studying (not just reading) the Bible consistently today. He will reveal much to a devoted disciple through His word. Yeshua’s disciples certainly did not start studying scripture as children but God used them in a mighty way!

Yeshua had a powerful prayer life. Communicating with the Father to receive instruction through prayer is essential to live as an effective disciple. Yeshua did not pray when convenient… when He had time. Yeshua stayed up late and got up early. Consistent prayer is essential to staying submitted to the Father’s will rather than our own. To study more about Yeshua’s prayer life, I recommend reading Experiencing Prayer with Jesus, by Henry and Norman Blackaby.

When it was time for His public ministry to begin, Yeshua found a small set of disciples, or followers. He had an inner circle in which He invested much time (Peter, James, John) and He had a wider group, but still small, that included all twelve disciples. He invested much time in the twelve, but not as much as He invested in the closer circle of three. Yeshua also taught the masses who sought to hear God’s word. He never turned away those who were genuinely seeking the word of God.

We must recognize that Yeshua forced no one to be a disciple or to listen to His message. Instead He choose people as disciples who came enthusiastically and willingly. They were eager to learn and they were not rebelling against Yah, insisting on clutching onto their traditions or their personal lives before meeting Yeshua. They were willing to put Yeshua as a priority above all other things. They left much behind of what they knew to follow Him. Others whom he invited, such as the rich young ruler introduced in Matthew 19:16, could not put him first and thus chose not to follow him.

Yeshua made time for people and demonstrated compassion, but also remained focused on going about doing God’s work. He dealt with mockers appropriately so as not to let them distract Him from getting to those who wanted to hear. Yeshua would reply to those trying to trick Him, but only to provide a teachable moment and an opportunity for them to hear truth and repent, and then He would move on.

In three years He created a team of disciples who could go out and teach others. This is what disciple means… Yeshua does not call us to just remain a “baby” in the faith, needing constant care and feeding. Rather He calls us to be disciples who can learn and teach others to learn. Those others then teach more and there is a multiplying effect that has dramatically impacted the world over the last two thousand years… starting from the humble beginnings of a poor carpenter who taught truth and stood up against the established teachers and scholars of the time and against centuries of traditions of men which were put above the commands of God.

We will briefly comment regarding Moses, Elijah, and Paul but of course you can study and learn more about them by reading the scriptures.

Moses trained judges to be prepared to help meet the needs of the people in order to properly lead such a large number of people. [Exodus 18:17-26]

Elijah invested time to disciple Elisha, who became his successor. [1Kings 19:19-21]

Paul managed his disciples over a wider geography, across many different cities and regions. He taught to crowds, big and small, on his missionary journeys. However, he clearly had a close circle of disciples with whom he traveled and invested significant time and a wider circle of individuals whom he discipled through occasional visits and more frequently through correspondence (e.g. letters).

So… what do we learn from Yeshua and some significant servants of Yahweh? What is a practical way to begin?

We must all begin with study of the scripture and prayer. We must develop a strong personal relationship with the Father. Do not get in a hurry to be the teacher. Yeshua did not start discipling others immediately, he studied from time of child and started with disciples at 30 years old. His disciples spent three years under His instruction and care before going out to disciple others on their own. They maintained a support structure often going out in pairs and coming back to consult with one another.

Most of us need to identify resources and techniques for studying scripture, and possibly find a teacher or disciple who is further on the journey than we are to help lead the way and answer questions. We must learn to feed ourselves with Yah’s help, still listening to the wise, but testing all they teach against scripture.

When you are ready, start seeking those you can invest time and relationship in to come together to study Yah’s word with commitment and devotion. Seek your disciples, without giving up or forsaking your relationship with your teacher or with the Father. Keep feeding yourself and continue on the journey to know, love, and serve Yahweh or you will not be effective in leading others. Even if you do not feel comfortable guiding a Bible study on your own, set up a Bible study anyway. You can use material from our ministry or from other teachers who have already prepared and shared the message of God’s word. Just remember to test everything against the whole of scripture using your own discernment and prayer… as even good teachers have some doctrine incorrect… and some of it quite significant.

After a time, do not rush it, and staying connected to the disciples you study with… each of you perhaps in pairs can also set up separate small groups to disciple others. Invest in more than just Bible study, but in life activities and support one another. Do not tolerate among your disciples those who would tempt you to sloth or to disregard and rebel against God’s word by rationalizing sin or worldly culture as acceptable. Do not tolerate among your close disciples those that refuse to submit to Yahweh and repent of their sin, clinging to their sin nature and refusing to change behaviors to honor God. Follow Jesus’ instructions found in Matthew 18:15-17.

15“If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother. 16“But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed. 17“If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

Listen, also, to your fellow disciples when they point out to you your sin… for the wise listen to good advice with thanksgiving and become wiser. A fool despises correction.

Stay focused. Consider writing down a plan for your personal discipleship both as a learner and as a teacher. Review periodically, perhaps a few times a year, to evaluate your progress and commitment to this mission. Pray for our Father’s help frequently… “and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Please reach out to us with questions through our Contact Us page. Our intent is to teach you and support you in becoming a disciple, not just to give you a word from the scriptures daily… though that is a great start.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please lead me in Your word with wisdom and courage. Help me to develop the passion to pursue the truth and depth of Your word. Give me a humble heart so that I may learn from others, even as I become more mature spiritually. Help also prepare me to lead others and to go forth and make disciples. To You be all the glory and honor. Amen. 

Shalom

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Guide, Holy Spirit / Ruach HaKodesh, Seeking God, Study the Word, Traditions / Holidays

Test Everything Faithfully: A Call to Discernment

Ever caught in the flow of fervent teachings or ingrained traditions, but not sure whether or not they are truly based on God’s word? Maybe you even feel spirit led… but is it truly the Spirit or something else?

Dive into Apostle Paul’s timeless guidance on embracing the Spirit while critically evaluating every teaching against Scripture’s unchanging standards.

Let’s explore these insights more deeply:

  • Embrace and Evaluate: In 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22, Paul warns us not to stifle the Spirit or scorn prophecies but to test everything and cling to what is good. This balance is essential for maintaining the integrity of our faith journey.
  • The Power of Discernment: The challenge of discerning truth from deception is both a gift and a critical responsibility. Discernment ensures that our beliefs are rooted in truth rather than tradition.
  • Tradition vs. Truth: Paul’s exhortation to test everything shines a light on the necessity of scrutinizing widely accepted norms, such as the observance of Sabbath on Sunday. The cultural shift towards Sunday Sabbath lacks a clear biblical foundation. A careful examination of the disciples’ practices, pre and post Yeshua’s resurrection, reveals their adherence to the seventh-day Sabbath.
  • Unmasking Cultural Holidays: Explore the pagan roots intertwined with “Christian holidays” like Christmas and Easter. The historical roots often intertwine with pagan practices, challenging believers to scrutinize traditions inherited from generations past. The absence of biblical endorsement for these celebrations invites us to reevaluate their place in our faith.
  • Testing Cultural Assumptions: Investigate common yet inaccurate cultural representations of biblical events, such as the number of wise men visiting Jesus or the nativity scene’s setting. These explorations reveal how deeply cultural assumptions can distort biblical truths.

If I were to ask most people “How many wise men visited Jesus?”, most would say “three”. Fact is that we don’t know. The Bible does not say. It only says they brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and we assume and teach three. It could be two or it could be five. One person can bring a gift of two items or two people can both bring the same item.

Similarly, nativity scenes almost always show the wise men at the stable where Yeshua was born. If you read the text, you will see this is not at all accurate. The star appeared when Yeshua was born. That is what triggered the wise men to plan and begin their journey. By the time they arrived, Yeshua was in a house, not a stable. We will also read later that Herod, understanding that Yeshua was born well ahead of the arrival of the Magi, ordered children up to two years old to be killed, not only newborns. (Matthew 2:1-12)

Conclusion: As we navigate the complex tapestry of faith and tradition, let Paul’s wisdom guide us. Embrace discernment to anchor our beliefs in the unchanging Word of God.

Call to Action: Commit to studying Scripture independently, challenging commonly accepted practices by comparing them with biblical teachings. Encourage others to embark on this journey of discernment and truth.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant us discerning hearts and minds. Guide us to hold fast to what is good and abstain from every form of evil. Illuminate the path of truth amid the complexities of cultural assumptions. May we, as Your children, stand firm on the foundation of Your Word. In Yeshua’s name, we pray, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Love, Obeying God, Repenting from Sin

Love Is Proven in Our Walk (1 John 2:1–14)

When you think about your relationship with God, do you ever wonder, “How can I be sure I truly know Him?”

Key Verse:
“The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.” —1 John 2:6 NASB

Background Context:
John continues his message of assurance, clarity, and spiritual discernment to believers. In 1 John 2:1–14, he comforts the church by reminding them that Jesus Himself is our Advocate before the Father and the atoning sacrifice for our sins. But John also emphasizes that genuine relationship with God produces obedience and love.

He explains that the old commandment — to love — is new in Christ because it is now perfectly revealed in His life, death, and resurrection. John then speaks warmly to different groups within the church (“little children,” “fathers,” and “young men”), reassuring them of their forgiveness, strength, and spiritual triumph through God’s Word.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 John 2:1–14

Christ Is Our Advocate

      1My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.

      3By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; 5but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.

      7Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. 8On the other hand, I am writing a new commandment to you, which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true Light is already shining. 9The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. 10The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. 11But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

      12I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for His name’s sake. 13I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father. 14I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.

Reflection on 1 John 2:1–14:
John begins with tenderness: “My little children, I am writing these things so that you may not sin.” He does not excuse sin — but neither does he leave the believer without hope. When we fall, “we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”

This is not a sentimental comfort; it is a profound theological truth. Jesus Himself intercedes for us. He stands in our defense on the basis of His righteousness, not ours. His sacrifice is the propitiation — the complete, wrath-satisfying atonement — not only for our sins but for the whole world.

But John does not stop at comfort. He moves to examination. How do we know we truly know God? John gives a simple, searching answer: “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments.”

Obedience is not the means of salvation but the evidence of genuine relationship. The one who claims to know God while ignoring His commands “is a liar.” The one who walks as Jesus walked shows that God’s love is being perfected in him.

Then John turns to love — the commandment that is both old and new. It is old because it has been God’s will from the beginning; new because Christ displayed it perfectly and empowers us to live it through His Spirit. Love is the distinguishing mark of those who walk in the light. Hatred or contempt toward others reveals darkness, no matter what a person professes.

Finally, John speaks encouragement to all believers. Children are forgiven. Fathers know the Eternal One. Young men have overcome the evil one and are strong because the Word of God abides in them. John’s words remind us that every stage of spiritual growth carries blessing, responsibility, and purpose.

Application:

  • Look to Christ when you sin. He is your Advocate — righteous, faithful, and always interceding for you.

  • Measure your walk honestly. True relationship with God produces obedience to His Word.

  • Walk as Jesus walked. Let His example shape your responses, priorities, and relationships.

  • Love with sincerity. Love is the visible evidence of walking in the light.

  • Let God’s Word abide in you. Strength against temptation flows from Scripture dwelling deeply in your heart.

  • Embrace your stage of spiritual growth. Whether young in faith or seasoned, God has purpose and encouragement for you.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for giving us an Advocate in Yeshua, who intercedes for us with perfect righteousness. Help me to walk in obedience, not as a burden but as evidence of knowing You. Fill my heart with genuine love for others, and let Your Word abide in me with strength and clarity. Teach me to walk as Yeshua walked, relying on Your Spirit every day. In His holy name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Courage / Fear, Faith / Trusting God, Guide, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Learning To Pray Effectively, Submitted / Servant, Wise

When Fear Drives You to Prayer (Genesis 32:1-21)

Have you ever faced a situation that terrified you — one where you had no control over the outcome but had to move forward anyway?

Key Verse:
“O God of my father Abraham and God of my father Isaac, O Lord, who said to me, ‘Return to your country and to your relatives, and I will prosper you,’ I am unworthy of all the lovingkindness and of all the faithfulness which You have shown to Your servant… Deliver me, I pray, from the hand of my brother.” —Genesis 32:9–11 NASB

Background Context:
Jacob is returning home after twenty years in Haran. God has richly blessed him, and now he must face the brother he deceived long ago. Esau had once vowed to kill him, and Jacob doesn’t know whether that anger still burns. As Jacob approaches, he learns that Esau is coming toward him with four hundred men — a detail that fills him with dread.

Jacob divides his camp, prays earnestly for God’s protection, and sends gifts ahead to Esau to soften his heart. His actions reveal both humility and dependence on God. Though Jacob has matured through hardship, he is still learning to trust fully — balancing fear with faith, human planning with divine reliance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 32:1-21

     1Now as Jacob went on his way, the angels of God met him. 2Jacob said when he saw them, “This is God’s camp.” So he named that place Mahanaim.

      3Then Jacob sent messengers before him to his brother Esau in the land of Seir, the country of Edom. 4He also commanded them saying, “Thus you shall say to my lord Esau: ‘Thus says your servant Jacob, “I have sojourned with Laban, and stayed until now; 5I have oxen and donkeys and flocks and male and female servants; and I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find favor in your sight.”’”

      6The messengers returned to Jacob, saying, “We came to your brother Esau, and furthermore he is coming to meet you, and four hundred men are with him.” 7Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed; and he divided the people who were with him, and the flocks and the herds and the camels, into two companies; 8for he said, “If Esau comes to the one company and attacks it, then the company which is left will escape.”

      9Jacob said, “O God of my father Abraham and God of my father Isaac, O LORD, who said to me, ‘Return to your country and to your relatives, and I will prosper you,’ 10I am unworthy of all the lovingkindness and of all the faithfulness which You have shown to Your servant; for with my staff only I crossed this Jordan, and now I have become two companies. 11“Deliver me, I pray, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau; for I fear him, that he will come and attack me and the mothers with the children. 12“For You said, ‘I will surely prosper you and make your descendants as the sand of the sea, which is too great to be numbered.’”

      13So he spent the night there. Then he selected from what he had with him a present for his brother Esau: 14two hundred female goats and twenty male goats, two hundred ewes and twenty rams, 15thirty milking camels and their colts, forty cows and ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten male donkeys. 16He delivered them into the hand of his servants, every drove by itself, and said to his servants, “Pass on before me, and put a space between droves.” 17He commanded the one in front, saying, “When my brother Esau meets you and asks you, saying, ‘To whom do you belong, and where are you going, and to whom do these animals in front of you belong?’ 18then you shall say, ‘These belong to your servant Jacob; it is a present sent to my lord Esau. And behold, he also is behind us.’” 19Then he commanded also the second and the third, and all those who followed the droves, saying, “After this manner you shall speak to Esau when you find him; 20and you shall say, ‘Behold, your servant Jacob also is behind us.’” For he said, “I will appease him with the present that goes before me. Then afterward I will see his face; perhaps he will accept me.” 21So the present passed on before him, while he himself spent that night in the camp.

Reflection on Genesis 32:1–21:
This passage captures the tension between faith and fear, prayer and preparation. Jacob knows God has promised to protect him, yet he still feels afraid. His first instinct is not to fight or run, but to pray — and that prayer is one of the most honest in Scripture. He admits his fear, confesses his unworthiness, and reminds God of His promises.

Jacob’s humility stands out. This is no longer the proud trickster who tried to control outcomes through deceit. He now recognizes that every blessing he has is undeserved mercy from God. Still, Jacob acts wisely — dividing his people and sending gifts as a peace offering. His faith does not make him passive; it guides him to prepare with integrity and humility.

Here we see a crucial truth: trusting God does not mean doing nothing. Faith and wisdom walk hand in hand. Jacob prayed — but he also planned. He depended on God — but he also did his part. True faith does not ignore responsibility; it invites us to act faithfully within God’s will while trusting Him with the results.

Laban may have left Jacob behind, but fear and uncertainty still test him. This moment reveals a growing man of faith who, while imperfect, has learned to bring his fear to God instead of relying on himself.

Application:

  • Pray first, not last. Like Jacob, turn to God before acting. Let prayer shape your response to fear.

  • Acknowledge your dependence on God. Jacob’s humility — admitting he is unworthy — opens the door for divine help.

  • Act in wisdom, not panic. Faith is not passive. Prepare, plan, and move forward while trusting God with the outcome.

  • Remember God’s promises. When fear arises, remind yourself of what He has already said and done.

Each of us will face “Esau moments” — times when we must face the consequences of our past, or situations beyond our control. Like Jacob, may we meet those moments with prayer, humility, and steady faith in the God who never fails.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for showing me through Jacob’s story that faith and wisdom belong together. When fear rises, help me to seek You first in prayer, to trust Your promises, and to act with humility and integrity. Remind me that I am unworthy of Your mercy, yet loved and protected by Your grace. Strengthen my faith to face what lies ahead, knowing that You go before me. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Guide, Marriage, Obeying God, Provider, Submitted / Servant

Obedience Beyond the Comfort Zone (Genesis 31:1-21)

Sometimes God calls us to leave the familiar — not because we’ve failed, but because it’s time to grow.

Have you ever felt God prompting you to move on from a place that no longer fits His purpose for your life?

Key Verse:
“Then the Lord said to Jacob, ‘Return to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you.’” —Genesis 31:3 NASB

Background Context:
After years of serving Laban, Jacob had grown wealthy, but tension filled the household. Laban’s sons accused Jacob of stealing their father’s wealth, and Laban’s attitude toward Jacob changed. At that point, the Lord spoke clearly: it was time for Jacob to return home to the land of his fathers — the land God had promised to Abraham and Isaac.

Jacob called Rachel and Leah to the fields, away from listening ears, and explained how God had blessed him despite Laban’s deceit. Both women agreed that their father had treated them unfairly and supported Jacob’s decision to leave. With faith and urgency, Jacob gathered his family, livestock, and possessions, and set out secretly toward Canaan. Though he left quietly, he did not leave in rebellion — he left in obedience to God’s call and under His promise of protection.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 31:1–21

Jacob Leaves Secretly for Canaan

      1Now Jacob heard the words of Laban’s sons, saying, “Jacob has taken away all that was our father’s, and from what belonged to our father he has made all this wealth.” 2Jacob saw the attitude of Laban, and behold, it was not friendly toward him as formerly. 3Then the LORD said to Jacob, “Return to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you.” 4So Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah to his flock in the field, 5and said to them, “I see your father’s attitude, that it is not friendly toward me as formerly, but the God of my father has been with me. 6“You know that I have served your father with all my strength. 7“Yet your father has cheated me and changed my wages ten times; however, God did not allow him to hurt me. 8“If he spoke thus, ‘The speckled shall be your wages,’ then all the flock brought forth speckled; and if he spoke thus, ‘The striped shall be your wages,’ then all the flock brought forth striped. 9“Thus God has taken away your father’s livestock and given them to me. 10“And it came about at the time when the flock were mating that I lifted up my eyes and saw in a dream, and behold, the male goats which were mating were striped, speckled, and mottled. 11“Then the angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob,’ and I said, ‘Here I am.’ 12“He said, ‘Lift up now your eyes and see that all the male goats which are mating are striped, speckled, and mottled; for I have seen all that Laban has been doing to you. 13‘I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed a pillar, where you made a vow to Me; now arise, leave this land, and return to the land of your birth.’” 14Rachel and Leah said to him, “Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father’s house? 15“Are we not reckoned by him as foreigners? For he has sold us, and has also entirely consumed our purchase price. 16“Surely all the wealth which God has taken away from our father belongs to us and our children; now then, do whatever God has said to you.”

      17Then Jacob arose and put his children and his wives upon camels; 18and he drove away all his livestock and all his property which he had gathered, his acquired livestock which he had gathered in Paddan-aram, to go to the land of Canaan to his father Isaac. 19When Laban had gone to shear his flock, then Rachel stole the household idols that were her father’s. 20And Jacob deceived Laban the Aramean by not telling him that he was fleeing. 21So he fled with all that he had; and he arose and crossed the Euphrates River, and set his face toward the hill country of Gilead.

Reflection on Genesis 31:1–21:
This passage reminds us that God’s blessing is never meant to make us settle outside His will. Jacob had prospered in Haran, but prosperity was not his purpose — promise was. God had called him to return to Canaan, the land of covenant promise.

Jacob could have rationalized staying: he was wealthy, established, and safe. But spiritual comfort is not the same as spiritual obedience. God had greater plans for Jacob — and to step into them, he had to leave behind security and step forward in faith.

Notice how God’s timing is perfect. Jacob didn’t act out of impulse or anger but in response to God’s word: “Return… and I will be with you.” That assurance mattered more than anything else. God’s presence was the promise that made the risk worth taking.

Rachel and Leah’s response also reveals transformation. They recognized that their father’s greed had left them with no inheritance, but they saw how God had been faithful to them through Jacob’s obedience. Together, the family moved forward, not because it was easy, but because it was right.

Jacob’s departure teaches us that obedience often requires courage — to let go of what is familiar, to trust God’s direction, and to move forward without knowing exactly how everything will unfold.

Application:
Ask yourself:

  • Is there something in your life God is asking you to leave behind — a habit, relationship, or situation that has outlived His purpose for it?

  • Are you delaying obedience because staying feels safer than trusting?

  • Do you recognize that God’s presence is your greatest security, not your circumstances?

Like Jacob, make your decision based not on comfort or fear, but on God’s voice. Keep working diligently, plan wisely, and move forward in faith — knowing that where God leads, He also provides.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for reminding me that obedience sometimes means stepping into the unknown. Help me to hear Your voice clearly and to follow it without fear. Teach me to value Your presence above my comfort and Your purpose above my plans. When You say it’s time to move, give me courage to trust that You go before me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Greed, Guide, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Intgegrity / Honesty, Lying / Deceiving, Provider

When God Works Through the Mess (Genesis 30:25-43)

God’s blessings often flow through faithful work, not idle waiting — His favor meets us as we obey, serve, and trust His timing.

Have you ever wondered how to balance trusting God with taking wise, responsible action?

Key Verse:
“So the man became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks and female and male servants and camels and donkeys.” —Genesis 30:43 NASB

Background Context:
After Joseph’s birth, Jacob told Laban that he wanted to return home. Laban, recognizing that his own success had come through Jacob’s faith and diligence, begged him to stay. He said, “I have divined that the Lord has blessed me on your account.” (v.27) Laban’s motives, however, were selfish — he wanted the prosperity to continue. Though Jacob had served faithfully for fourteen years, enduring Laban’s deception, he remained respectful and ready to leave without demanding extra pay.

Jacob proposed a new, fair arrangement: he would continue tending Laban’s flocks, and as wages, he would keep only the speckled and spotted animals. Laban agreed, likely believing Jacob’s plan would yield little profit. Yet God blessed Jacob’s wisdom and hard work — and the flocks multiplied greatly. Even though both men acted with mixed motives, God’s faithfulness shone through, blessing Jacob and building his household for the future.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 30:25-43

   25Now it came about when Rachel had borne Joseph, that Jacob said to Laban, “Send me away, that I may go to my own place and to my own country. 26“Give me my wives and my children for whom I have served you, and let me depart; for you yourself know my service which I have rendered you.” 27But Laban said to him, “If now it pleases you, stay with me; I have divined that the LORD has blessed me on your account.” 28He continued, “Name me your wages, and I will give it.” 29But he said to him, “You yourself know how I have served you and how your cattle have fared with me. 30“For you had little before I came and it has increased to a multitude, and the LORD has blessed you wherever I turned. But now, when shall I provide for my own household also?” 31So he said, “What shall I give you?” And Jacob said, “You shall not give me anything. If you will do this one thing for me, I will again pasture and keep your flock: 32let me pass through your entire flock today, removing from there every speckled and spotted sheep and every black one among the lambs and the spotted and speckled among the goats; and such shall be my wages. 33“So my honesty will answer for me later, when you come concerning my wages. Every one that is not speckled and spotted among the goats and black among the lambs, if found with me, will be considered stolen.” 34Laban said, “Good, let it be according to your word.” 35So he removed on that day the striped and spotted male goats and all the speckled and spotted female goats, every one with white in it, and all the black ones among the sheep, and gave them into the care of his sons. 36And he put a distance of three days’ journey between himself and Jacob, and Jacob fed the rest of Laban’s flocks.

37Then Jacob took fresh rods of poplar and almond and plane trees, and peeled white stripes in them, exposing the white which was in the rods. 38He set the rods which he had peeled in front of the flocks in the gutters, even in the watering troughs, where the flocks came to drink; and they mated when they came to drink. 39So the flocks mated by the rods, and the flocks brought forth striped, speckled, and spotted. 40Jacob separated the lambs, and made the flocks face toward the striped and all the black in the flock of Laban; and he put his own herds apart, and did not put them with Laban’s flock. 41Moreover, whenever the stronger of the flock were mating, Jacob would place the rods in the sight of the flock in the gutters, so that they might mate by the rods; 42but when the flock was feeble, he did not put them in; so the feebler were Laban’s and the stronger Jacob’s. 43So the man became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks and female and male servants and camels and donkeys.

Reflection on Genesis 30:25–43:
This story reveals that God’s provision works hand in hand with human effort and integrity. Jacob trusted God, but he didn’t sit idly by. He worked diligently, cared for the flocks faithfully, and planned responsibly for his household. God’s blessing was not a reward for manipulation or laziness, but for steady, faithful effort under His guidance.

Laban, though aware of God’s blessing through Jacob, never turned his heart toward the Lord. He saw God’s favor only as financial gain. Jacob, on the other hand, recognized that his success came from God’s hand, not his own schemes. Despite being mistreated, he remained honorable — fulfilling his agreements, avoiding resentment, and showing wisdom in negotiation.

Jacob’s approach challenges us to hold both faith and responsibility together. He trusted God’s promise yet still acted with diligence and foresight. The text reminds us that prosperity does not come overnight — and it never comes apart from God’s grace. Like Abraham before him, Jacob’s success was the fruit of long faithfulness, hard work, and divine favor.

Application:
This passage offers practical lessons for how we work, plan, and trust:

  • Work diligently while trusting God’s provision. Faith is not passivity — God blesses effort that honors Him.

  • Keep your word. Like Jacob, live with integrity even when others benefit from your labor.

  • Avoid resentment. Don’t envy the success of others or demand more than you agreed upon; trust God to bless you in His time.

  • Plan wisely for your household. It’s not ungodly to prepare for your future — it’s faithful stewardship.

  • Recognize God as your source. True success flows not from cleverness but from His sustaining hand.

Take time today to examine your attitude toward work, provision, and waiting. Are you striving in your own strength, or working faithfully with trust in God’s timing? Remember — He provides not just through miracles, but through your daily obedience.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for showing me through Jacob’s story that Your blessings come through both faith and faithful work. Help me to trust You while serving diligently, to plan wisely, and to live with integrity in all my dealings. Keep me from jealousy or resentment when others prosper, and remind me that You are the source of every good thing. Bless the work of my hands as I walk in obedience to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Doubt / Lacking Faith, Faith / Trusting God, Guide, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Marriage, Patient, Peace / Rest, Provider

When Our Plans Complicate God’s Promise (Genesis 30:1-24)

When we try to force God’s plan instead of trusting His timing, we often make a mess that only His mercy can redeem.

Have you ever tried to “help” God fulfill His promises — only to realize later you had made things worse?

Key Verse:
“Then God remembered Rachel, and God gave heed to her and opened her womb.” —Genesis 30:22 NASB

Background Context:
Jacob’s growing household paints a vivid picture of what happens when human striving replaces patient faith. Leah had borne several sons, but Rachel remained barren. Out of jealousy and desperation, Rachel cried to Jacob, “Give me children, or I’ll die!” and then offered her maid Bilhah to bear children in her place. Leah, not to be outdone, gave her maid Zilpah, and soon four women were competing for Jacob’s affection and status through childbearing. Rivalry, resentment, and manipulation defined the household. Yet despite the human turmoil, God’s covenant promises continued to unfold — not because of their striving, but because of His sovereign faithfulness. In time, God “remembered Rachel,” opened her womb, and gave her a son — Joseph — who would later become a vessel of redemption for the entire family.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Even in our striving and impatience, God’s plan continues to unfold.

Have you ever tried to take matters into your own hands when God seemed to be taking too long?

Key Verse:
“Then God remembered Rachel, and God gave heed to her and opened her womb.” —Genesis 30:22 NASB

Background Context:
Jacob’s household became a picture of human striving and divine mercy. Leah had borne several sons, but Rachel remained barren. Jealous and desperate, she demanded that Jacob give her children — a burden no human could bear. In her frustration, she offered her maid Bilhah to Jacob, and Bilhah bore two sons. Leah, not to be outdone, gave her maid Zilpah, who also bore two sons. The family’s rivalry grew as the sisters competed for love and significance through childbearing. Yet amid all the scheming, God was still at work. In time, He “remembered Rachel,” opened her womb, and she bore Joseph — a child who would one day play a pivotal role in saving their family and fulfilling God’s covenant plan.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 30:1-24

The Sons of Jacob

      1Now when Rachel saw that she bore Jacob no children, she became jealous of her sister; and she said to Jacob, “Give me children, or else I die.” 2Then Jacob’s anger burned against Rachel, and he said, “Am I in the place of God, who has withheld from you the fruit of the womb?” 3She said, “Here is my maid Bilhah, go in to her that she may bear on my knees, that through her I too may have children.” 4So she gave him her maid Bilhah as a wife, and Jacob went in to her. 5Bilhah conceived and bore Jacob a son. 6Then Rachel said, “God has vindicated me, and has indeed heard my voice and has given me a son.” Therefore she named him Dan. 7Rachel’s maid Bilhah conceived again and bore Jacob a second son. 8So Rachel said, “With mighty wrestlings I have wrestled with my sister, and I have indeed prevailed.” And she named him Naphtali.

      9When Leah saw that she had stopped bearing, she took her maid Zilpah and gave her to Jacob as a wife. 10Leah’s maid Zilpah bore Jacob a son. 11Then Leah said, “How fortunate!” So she named him Gad. 12Leah’s maid Zilpah bore Jacob a second son. 13Then Leah said, “Happy am I! For women will call me happy.” So she named him Asher.

      14Now in the days of wheat harvest Reuben went and found mandrakes in the field, and brought them to his mother Leah. Then Rachel said to Leah, “Please give me some of your son’s mandrakes.” 15But she said to her, “Is it a small matter for you to take my husband? And would you take my son’s mandrakes also?” So Rachel said, “Therefore he may lie with you tonight in return for your son’s mandrakes.” 16When Jacob came in from the field in the evening, then Leah went out to meet him and said, “You must come in to me, for I have surely hired you with my son’s mandrakes.” So he lay with her that night. 17God gave heed to Leah, and she conceived and bore Jacob a fifth son. 18Then Leah said, “God has given me my wages because I gave my maid to my husband.” So she named him Issachar. 19Leah conceived again and bore a sixth son to Jacob. 20Then Leah said, “God has endowed me with a good gift; now my husband will dwell with me, because I have borne him six sons.” So she named him Zebulun. 21Afterward she bore a daughter and named her Dinah.

      22Then God remembered Rachel, and God gave heed to her and opened her womb. 23So she conceived and bore a son and said, “God has taken away my reproach.” 24She named him Joseph, saying, “May the LORD give me another son.”

Reflection on Genesis 30:1–24:
Genesis 30 shows what happens when impatience collides with pride. Both Rachel and Leah longed for love, validation, and security, but they sought those things through human means — not through God’s timing. Rachel’s jealousy of Leah drove her to desperate measures, and Leah’s insecurity led her to compete for Jacob’s affection. Each birth became another round in a rivalry that fractured their family.

What began as a personal struggle eventually affected generations. The dysfunction we see here — envy, favoritism, manipulation — becomes the soil in which later conflicts take root, especially in the story of Joseph and his brothers. The seeds of resentment sown in Genesis 30 will bear bitter fruit in Genesis 37, when jealousy once again divides Jacob’s family.

Yet even amid the mess, God’s mercy shines. He didn’t abandon them. He used even their failures to accomplish His purpose. When Rachel finally conceived, Scripture says, “God remembered Rachel.” That moment wasn’t just about physical birth — it was a spiritual reminder that God’s promises are fulfilled not by striving, but by surrender.

We may not have a household like Jacob’s, but the principle is the same: when we try to control outcomes instead of trusting God, we create confusion and heartache. But when we finally release control, God steps in with grace that brings peace and purpose out of the chaos.

Application:
Think about an area where you’ve been striving — trying to force a result, fix a situation, or rush God’s timing. Ask Him to reveal where impatience or comparison may be fueling your actions. Surrender that area to Him and pray for the faith to trust His plan. Remember: God’s promises are certain, but His timing is sovereign. When we rest in His will, He can turn even our messy attempts into testimonies of His grace.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for reminding me that Your plans never need my manipulation to succeed. Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to take control instead of trusting You. Help me to be patient when You seem silent, knowing that Your timing is perfect and Your promises never fail. Even in the messes I’ve made, show me Your mercy and teach me to walk in faith, not frustration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Devotions by John, Faith / Trusting God, Guide, Humility, Submitted / Servant, Teachable, Truth

Hard Teachings and True Disciples (John 6:35–68)

Truth is not always easy to hear, but it is always necessary to live.

Have you ever struggled with something in God’s Word that challenged your comfort or understanding?

Key Verse:
“Simon Peter answered Him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.’” —John 6:68–69 NASB

Background Context:
After feeding the five thousand, Jesus declared Himself to be the Bread of Life — the true spiritual sustenance from heaven. As He taught in the synagogue at Capernaum, His words grew harder for many to accept. He explained that eternal life comes only through Him — that one must “eat His flesh” and “drink His blood,” symbolizing total faith and dependence on His sacrificial death. The crowd murmured; many were offended. Even some disciples turned away, unable to accept His teaching. But Peter, speaking for the Twelve, declared unwavering loyalty, recognizing that there was nowhere else to go for truth and life but to Christ Himself.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 6:35–68

      35Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst. 36“But I said to you that you have seen Me, and yet do not believe. 37“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out. 38“For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. 39“This is the will of Him who sent Me, that of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day. 40“For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day.”

Words to the Jews

      41Therefore the Jews were grumbling about Him, because He said, “I am the bread that came down out of heaven.” 42They were saying, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does He now say, ‘I have come down out of heaven’?” 43Jesus answered and said to them, “Do not grumble among yourselves. 44“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day. 45“It is written in the prophets, ‘AND THEY SHALL ALL BE TAUGHT OF GOD.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father, comes to Me. 46“Not that anyone has seen the Father, except the One who is from God; He has seen the Father. 47“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. 48“I am the bread of life. 49“Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. 50“This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. 51“I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread also which I will give for the life of the world is My flesh.”

      52Then the Jews began to argue with one another, saying, “How can this man give us His flesh to eat?” 53So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in yourselves. 54“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. 55“For My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink. 56“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. 57“As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats Me, he also will live because of Me. 58“This is the bread which came down out of heaven; not as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live forever.”

Words to the Disciples

      59These things He said in the synagogue as He taught in Capernaum.

      60Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this said, “This is a difficult statement; who can listen to it?” 61But Jesus, conscious that His disciples grumbled at this, said to them, “Does this cause you to stumble? 62“What then if you see the Son of Man ascending to where He was before? 63“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. 64“But there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who it was that would betray Him. 65And He was saying, “For this reason I have said to you, that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted him from the Father.”

Peter’s Confession of Faith

      66As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew and were not walking with Him anymore. 67So Jesus said to the twelve, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” 68Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life. 69“We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.” 70Jesus answered them, “Did I Myself not choose you, the twelve, and yet one of you is a devil?” 71Now He meant Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray Him.

Reflection on John 6:35–68:
This passage reveals both the dividing line of truth and the depth of true discipleship. Jesus never softened His message to retain followers. He spoke the truth of eternal life, even knowing it would drive many away. He cared more about salvation than popularity — more about transformation than comfort.

In our modern world, this lesson is still urgent. Many prefer a softened gospel — one that soothes but does not convict. Yet if we water down the truth to keep people happy, we leave them spiritually starving. Teaching truth boldly is not unkind; it is the truest form of love. Like a parent warning a child not to play in the street, God’s commands protect us even when they restrict us.

When Jesus asked, “Do you also want to leave?” Peter’s answer shines with timeless wisdom: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Once we know that Jesus is the Holy One of God, we can’t turn back. Even when His words challenge us, we must seek understanding, not escape. Faith means trusting that His truth, however hard, leads to life.

Our faith is not blind — it is built on the reality of who Jesus is and what He has done. His miracles, His death, and His resurrection confirm that His words are not just spiritual ideas but eternal truth. To follow Christ fully is to accept His Word fully — even the parts that stretch us, confront us, and call us to change.

Application:
Take time today to reflect on areas where God’s Word challenges you. Are there teachings you tend to avoid or soften? Ask the Holy Spirit for courage to receive His truth with humility and to live it boldly. Pray also for today’s church — that its leaders and members alike will stand firm in teaching the full gospel, even when it offends, because truth is what saves.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Bread of Life and the source of all truth. Give me courage to follow You even when Your teachings are hard or unpopular. Keep me from seeking comfort over conviction. Help me to speak and live Your Word faithfully, knowing that true love tells the truth. You alone have the words of eternal life — keep me close to You always. In Your holy name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Faith / Trusting God, Guide, Marriage, Protector / Deliverer

Found by the Well (Genesis 29:1–14)

Sometimes God’s guidance is so natural, we don’t realize He’s been leading all along.

Have you ever looked back and realized that every “coincidence” was actually God’s providence?

Key Verse:
“Jacob went on his journey and came to the land of the sons of the east.” —Genesis 29:1 NASB

Background Context:
After his dream at Bethel, Jacob continues his journey toward Haran, carrying his father’s blessing and God’s promise. Alone and far from home, he arrives at a well — a familiar symbol of divine appointment in Scripture. There he meets shepherds waiting to water their flocks and learns that they know Laban, his mother’s brother. As they speak, Rachel arrives to water her father’s sheep. Moved with emotion, Jacob helps roll the stone from the well, waters her flock, and weeps with joy. God’s hand is evident — Jacob has found his relatives just as the Lord directed. Rachel runs to tell her father, and Jacob is warmly welcomed into the family of Laban.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 29:1–14

Jacob Meets Rachel

      1Then Jacob went on his journey, and came to the land of the sons of the east. 2He looked, and saw a well in the field, and behold, three flocks of sheep were lying there beside it, for from that well they watered the flocks. Now the stone on the mouth of the well was large. 3When all the flocks were gathered there, they would then roll the stone from the mouth of the well and water the sheep, and put the stone back in its place on the mouth of the well.

      4Jacob said to them, “My brothers, where are you from?” And they said, “We are from Haran.” 5He said to them, “Do you know Laban the son of Nahor?” And they said, “We know him.” 6And he said to them, “Is it well with him?” And they said, “It is well, and here is Rachel his daughter coming with the sheep.” 7He said, “Behold, it is still high day; it is not time for the livestock to be gathered. Water the sheep, and go, pasture them.” 8But they said, “We cannot, until all the flocks are gathered, and they roll the stone from the mouth of the well; then we water the sheep.”

      9While he was still speaking with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep, for she was a shepherdess. 10When Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother’s brother, and the sheep of Laban his mother’s brother, Jacob went up and rolled the stone from the mouth of the well and watered the flock of Laban his mother’s brother. 11Then Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted his voice and wept. 12Jacob told Rachel that he was a relative of her father and that he was Rebekah’s son, and she ran and told her father.

      13So when Laban heard the news of Jacob his sister’s son, he ran to meet him, and embraced him and kissed him and brought him to his house. Then he related to Laban all these things. 14Laban said to him, “Surely you are my bone and my flesh.” And he stayed with him a month.

Reflection on Genesis 29:1–14:
Jacob’s journey shows us the quiet precision of God’s providence. No angelic visions here, no thunderous voice from heaven — just an ordinary man arriving at an ordinary well at the perfect time. Yet behind the ordinary, God is at work.

This was no accident. God had promised Jacob that He would be with him and guide him (Genesis 28:15), and this encounter fulfills that promise. What began as a fearful escape from Esau is now a step into God’s unfolding plan — one that will build the nation of Israel through Jacob’s descendants.

Jacob’s tears at the well remind us that when we finally see God’s faithfulness unfold, it overwhelms the heart. He wasn’t just finding Rachel; he was discovering the evidence of God’s presence on the journey.

God still works this way today — often through everyday moments, quiet timing, and the simple unfolding of events. What feels like coincidence is often the fingerprint of divine purpose.

Application:
Look back on your life and identify moments that once seemed ordinary but now reveal God’s direction. Thank Him for guiding you even when you didn’t see His hand. If you’re in a season of uncertainty, remember Jacob’s story — God’s promises still guide His people today. Trust that He can use even the small steps, delays, and detours to lead you exactly where you need to be.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for guiding my steps, even when I don’t recognize Your hand at work. Help me to trust that Your timing is perfect and that every step of my journey is under Your care. Teach me to walk in faith, not fear, and to see Your providence in the ordinary moments of life. Thank You for being faithful to lead me where Your promises are fulfilled. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Guide, Psalms, Seeking God

Teach Me Your Ways O’ God (Psalm 25)

When life feels uncertain, where do you turn for direction and security?

Key Verse:
“Make me know Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day.” —Psalm 25:4–5 NASB

Background Context:
Psalm 25 is a prayer of David that blends worship, confession, and trust. Written in an acrostic form in Hebrew, it reflects David’s lifelong journey of learning to depend on God’s mercy and guidance. In this psalm, David lifts up his soul to God, seeking forgiveness for past sins and direction for the future. His confidence is not in his own righteousness but in the steadfast love and faithfulness of the Lord.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 25

Prayer for Protection, Guidance and Pardon.

A Psalm of David.

1To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul.

      2O my God, in You I trust,
Do not let me be ashamed;
Do not let my enemies exult over me.

      3Indeed, none of those who wait for You will be ashamed;
Those who deal treacherously without cause will be ashamed.

      4Make me know Your ways, O LORD;
Teach me Your paths.

      5Lead me in Your truth and teach me,
For You are the God of my salvation;
For You I wait all the day.

      6Remember, O LORD, Your compassion and Your lovingkindnesses,
For they have been from of old.

      7Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
According to Your lovingkindness remember me,
For Your goodness’ sake, O LORD.

      8Good and upright is the LORD;
Therefore He instructs sinners in the way.

      9He leads the humble in justice,
And He teaches the humble His way.

      10All the paths of the LORD are lovingkindness and truth
To those who keep His covenant and His testimonies.

      11For Your name’s sake, O LORD,
Pardon my iniquity, for it is great.

      12Who is the man who fears the LORD?
He will instruct him in the way he should choose.

      13His soul will abide in prosperity,
And his descendants will inherit the land.

      14The secret of the LORD is for those who fear Him,
And He will make them know His covenant.

      15My eyes are continually toward the LORD,
For He will pluck my feet out of the net.

      16Turn to me and be gracious to me,
For I am lonely and afflicted.

      17The troubles of my heart are enlarged;
Bring me out of my distresses.

      18Look upon my affliction and my trouble,
And forgive all my sins.

      19Look upon my enemies, for they are many,
And they hate me with violent hatred.

      20Guard my soul and deliver me;
Do not let me be ashamed, for I take refuge in You.

      21Let integrity and uprightness preserve me,
For I wait for You.

      22Redeem Israel, O God,
Out of all his troubles.

Reflection on Psalm 25:
David begins by declaring his trust in God, lifting his soul as an act of surrender. He doesn’t ask for success or comfort first — he asks to be taught. True wisdom begins with humility, and David’s heart posture shows that learning God’s ways is more valuable than avoiding life’s troubles.

Throughout the psalm, David acknowledges both his need for guidance and his need for grace. He remembers the sins of his youth yet trusts in God’s compassion. He describes the Lord as “good and upright,” leading the humble in what is right. The psalm weaves together two truths: God’s direction is for those who submit, and His mercy is for those who repent.

For believers today, Psalm 25 reminds us that waiting on God is not passive—it’s the active posture of faith. While the world rushes ahead for answers, we wait with confidence, knowing the One who guides us also redeems us.

Application:
Take a moment to “lift up your soul” to the Lord in prayer. Ask Him to show you where you need His direction—perhaps in a decision, a relationship, or a struggle. Write down one area where you’ve been relying on your own understanding, and surrender it to Him. Spend time each day this week reading Scripture and asking God, “Teach me Your ways.”

Closing Prayer:
Father, I lift up my soul to You today. Teach me Your ways, and lead me in Your truth. Forgive the sins of my past, and guide me in paths of righteousness. Help me to trust You fully as I wait for Your direction. May Your steadfast love and faithfulness shape every step I take. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

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