Genesis 30:1-2,6 NKJV
Now when Rachel saw that she bore Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister, and said to Jacob, “Give me children, or else I die!” [2] And Jacob’s anger was aroused against Rachel, and he said, “Am I in the place of God, who has withheld from you the fruit of the womb?” [6] Then Rachel said, “God has judged my case; and He has also heard my voice and given me a son.” Therefore she called his name Dan.
These are thoughts that encourage me as I read this passage.
Leah was not as pretty as Rachel.
God made them that way, meaning they are not to blame.
When you look at their characteristics, there was contention and competition which resulted in God’s judgment.
That made Rachel barren, that consequently got her upset.
Jacob’s love for her was physically motivated not character driven.
In all this, it is futile to play the blame game because I don’t know how I would have reacted.
I know how I should have reacted, but that is another story.
Then Dan was born. Notice the “El” is missing, meaning he is not named Daniel, which roughly means God is my judge.
Even now, the tribe of Dan is viewed as the bad guys by some folks, especially when they don’t find that name listed in the book of Revelation of Jesus Christ.
So how is all this encouraging you ask?
When I read all this and similar instances, I’m reminded of the grace extended towards us in the New Covenant we have with Jesus Christ. I’m encouraged that no matter what my past is/was, I am a new creation in Christ (2Cor5) and if I draw near to God, He will draw near to me.
James 4:8 NKJV Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.