“And he said, Appoint me thy wages, and I will give it.”
Context:This verse is part of the narrative of Jacob’s time with his uncle Laban. Jacob had agreed to work for Laban for seven years in order to marry Laban’s daughter Rachel, but Laban deceived Jacob and gave him Leah, Rachel’s older sister, as his wife. Jacob then worked another seven years for Laban to marry Rachel. In the process, Jacob’s flocks increased, and he became prosperous.
Acknowledging Jacob’s Diligence:– Jacob’s work ethic: Genesis 29:20 tells us that Jacob served Laban for Rachel’s sake, and he did so with dedication and diligence. His commitment to his responsibilities is noteworthy.
Negotiating Wages:
- Jacob’s request: In Genesis 30:28, Jacob approaches Laban and asks him to set his wages. After years of service, Jacob desires to establish a fair arrangement for his continued work.
- A fair compensation: Jacob doesn’t want to be taken advantage of or mistreated by Laban. He seeks a clear agreement on what he will receive for his labor, indicating his desire for transparency and fairness.
Trust in God’s Provision:
- God’s blessing: Throughout Jacob’s time with Laban, God blessed him abundantly. Genesis 30:27 says that God had blessed Laban through Jacob’s service. Jacob recognizes God’s favour and acknowledges it as the source of his prosperity.
- Relying on God: By asking Laban to determine his wages, Jacob demonstrates his trust in God’s provision. He understands that his prosperity ultimately comes from God and that God will take care of him in the negotiations.
Application to Our Lives:
- Diligence in our work: Like Jacob, we should approach our responsibilities with diligence and commitment. Colossians 3:23 encourages us to work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that God rewards our efforts.
- Seeking fairness and transparency: When dealing with others, it’s essential to seek fairness and transparency. Proverbs 16:11 reminds us that honest scales and balances belong to the Lord, and all the weights in the bag are of his making.
- Trusting in God’s provision: Just as Jacob trusted in God’s provision, we should rely on God’s faithfulness in our lives. Matthew 6:33 reminds us to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to us.
In Genesis 30:28, we see Jacob’s request to establish fair wages with Laban while recognising God’s blessing and provision in his life. This passage encourages us to approach our work diligently, seek fairness in our dealings, and trust in God’s provision for our needs.
