May God bless you
(Genesis 28:1-5)
Conflicts in human relationships are some of the most painful challenges we encounter, and those within families can leave the deepest wounds. The Bible records that Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac, struggled with each other even in their mother’s womb. When Isaac prepared to bless his firstborn, Jacob deceived his father by wearing Esau’s clothes, thereby receiving the blessing meant for the eldest son. This act of deception greatly intensified the rift between the brothers. In his anger, Esau sought to kill Jacob. To protect him, their mother Rebekah urged Jacob to escape to the house of his uncle Laban.

1. Prayer and command of the father.
　　　Before Jacob embarked on his long journey, Isaac blessed him and gave an important command: to build a household of faith. He advised Jacob not to take a wife from among the foreign women, but rather to choose a wife from among the women who served God (Genesis 28:1-2). The reason was that sharing life with someone of the same faith leads to lasting joy and peace. This principle applies not only to the choice of a spouse but also to friendships and professional relationships. Problems arise when we associate with those who lack faith, are overly self-centered, have a twisted character, are quick to anger, are prone to gossip, or live in unbelief. Therefore, we should aim to be people of faith who bring joy to God, becoming virtuous, gentle, and respected by others.

2. God who blesses.
　　　As Jacob prepared to depart for Paddan Aram in Haran, Isaac blessed him, saying, “May God Almighty bless you and make you fruitful and increase your numbers until you become a community of peoples” (Genesis 28:3). The God we believe in and serve is the Almighty. When God bestows blessings, no one can stop them. When God blesses His people, they will flourish and grow into a powerful nation. This promise is not limited to physical prosperity; it also includes spiritual growth and the expansion of God’s kingdom. No longer living under a cursed life, we become new creations in God, living a renewed life (2 Corinthians 5:17). May we be filled with the Holy Spirit, flourish spiritually, and dwell in the land of blessing that God has prepared, living in His grace and abundance.