Expecting for Rachel

Based on the story: When Jacob Marries Leah & Rachel

Genesis 29:14b-30

As a part of God's promise to his grandfather Abraham, Jacob was guided from the very start. He was clearly told by his father Isaac all the instructions that will help him on his journey. 

Being one of Laban's closest relative and because of his diligence, he was given an opportunity to ask for anything, a reward for his goodness. 

Most of the time, God allows us to ask for something we desire to have; but at the precious time like this, He initiates us to ask for anything. God knows everyone's heart especially when we are serving him with love. His graciousness is at its best when he allows us to ask or petition of something we deeply desire even though he has greater in mind.  

        In the story, it is visible that Jacob was fell in love with Rachel. As part of agreement, he have to work for seven years for Laban- the father. Jacob did not mind the span of time, he displayed patience, hard work, diligence and willing to do everything for the woman he wants to marry. He became focus in his service. He was certainly fueled by love, not only by her beauty and potential. Jacob was a clear picture of a man who is willing to wait and to do what it takes not only for his woman but also to please her family. He even showed courage to stand firm on what belongs to him. Above all, during the moment he felt deceived, he stood patiently until Leah's bridal week was finished.

     One big question here, why does it happen to Jacob? At the end, he got Rachel and sooner became his wife. But how come or it seemed that the receiving is somewhat delayed, mainly when the whole story showcased the patience and obedience of Jacob.  He worked satisfyingly and played the role rightfully. Why God allows a setback like this?

Going back to the scripture during that time there was a custom that the older should marry first before the younger.  Perhaps, Jacob failed to observe this practice. He was so driven by his desire with all good intentions and all that. But as someone in charge, Laban was reminded about it. Maybe he really doesn't mean to deceive Jacob? Perhaps he only wanted to make all things right and fall in order. Surely, he also wants to respect his eldest and become fair in the sight of people and to honor their tradition.

Similar with God, he can use anyone or anything in whatever circumstances he wanted until everything falls rightfully in places. Once in my life I asked God for someone. I worked intensely to grab this most delightful reward I've ever known. Like Jacob, he became my inspiration to serve God and to wait. When I sensed that the time is approaching to claim what belongs to me. I was surprised that I found a shadow of Leah. My initial reaction was the same with Jacob, I turned badly to God and felt totally betrayed. I was completely disappointed. I struggle to acknowledge His divine reasons and suddenly jumped off with pointless questions. However, since he is the One in control and in charge of the order of things. My God did not miss that one thing in which honestly, I failed to see. “I worked and waited so hard to settle for my second best.” All those times I thought he is my “Rachel”, the real “Rachel”, the one promised to me by God (Gen 29:19). The one in whom God intentionally reserved for me. With all humility, I fail to remember that He is a God of order (Gen 29:26). He is not in a hurry. Through the season of waiting God cultivates in me a character of not giving up before time and until I receive what is due to me. 

In my stillness, I realized that God purposely handed me down to “Leah” so that I found what's true and recognize my worth.  Through that process, God taught me to believe in His ways and wait for His will! Like Jacob, I wake up more determined, wiser and better. 

           Besides, what is more amazing now is that I am not only desiring to wait for the right man God has for me but also I am standing firm in faith to the truth that what is meant for me will not pass by me, like what is stated in v.19 that, “I will give him to you than to some other 'woman', as you stay in My presence.” I just cannot imagine how difficult it was for Jacob. But praise God, because his great love for Rachel motivates Jacob to serve Laban for another seven years more in order to win the girl whom he wanted to marry. Until God has completely accomplished His work in and through me, I will keep serving God and even if it takes to wait another seven long years more. After all I went through, lessons learned, and sacrifices made. In faith there is no other way but to take one step forward to receive my most awaited "Rachel" - my God's will.