“And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him.” (Gen 32:1)
The story of Jacob, as with many stories in the Bible, uses terms that can confuse people. When Genesis 32:1 says “…the angels of God met him.” it is not just an accidental meeting, or Jacob said “Hi guys”. It is more like the angels joined with Jacob to protect and prepare a way for him. Jacob is being used by God to prepare away for the future messiah. And that brings us to the meeting of Jacob with Esau his brother.
Jacob knew that Esau was angry with him and in Jacob’s mind Esau would probably kill him. Jacob, under God’s guidance came up with a two pronged defense.
Firstly, he sent out messengers to to tell Esau that Jacob had been living and working with Laban and now he had oxen, asses, livestock men servants, and women servants. And Jacob wishes to find grace with you.
This message has two meanings. The first was Jacob’s worth, in terms of goods. The second is that Jacob wishes a friendly meeting and he will provide gifts to placate Esau.
The second part of Jacob’s plan is to divide his people into two groups. If either group meets Esau, then the other group can escape. In many military operations dividing your forces often meets with disaster. However, there are times when leaving a force behind buys enough time to live another day.
God gave Jacob a plan. But God’s plan is not for Jacob to win a delaying battle with Esau, but to see the power of God’s will and protection. Jacob will meet a much more difficult battle.
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