“This twenty years have I been with thee; thy ewes and thy she goats have not cast their young, and the rams of thy flock have I not eaten.”
In this verse, we find Jacob speaking to his father-in-law, Laban, in response to Laban’s accusations. Let’s provide some context to better understand the significance of this verse.
Jacob had been working for Laban for a total of twenty years. Initially, Jacob had agreed to work for Laban for seven years to marry Rachel, Laban’s younger daughter. However, Laban deceived Jacob by giving him Leah, Rachel’s older sister, in marriage. Jacob then agreed to work an additional seven years for Rachel.
During this time, Jacob experienced various challenges and conflicts with Laban. Laban changed Jacob’s wages multiple times, attempting to benefit himself at Jacob’s expense. Despite Laban’s dishonesty and mistreatment, Jacob’s hard work and faithfulness led to the growth of Laban’s flocks and herds. Jacob tended to the animals, ensuring their well-being and protecting them from harm.
In Genesis 31:38, Jacob defends his integrity and recounts the years he spent with Laban. He declares that during his time of service, none of Laban’s sheep or goats had miscarriages or lost their young ones. Furthermore, Jacob claims that he never consumed any of the rams from Laban’s flock for his own gain.
This statement by Jacob highlights his commitment and dedication to his work. It shows that he acted with honesty and integrity despite Laban’s unfair treatment. Jacob’s care for the animals entrusted to him demonstrates his faithfulness in carrying out his responsibilities.
This verse also serves as a reminder of God’s presence and blessing upon Jacob. Throughout the narrative of Jacob’s life, we see God’s faithfulness in guiding and protecting him. Despite the difficulties he faced, Jacob acknowledged God as the source of his success and recognized that it was God who ensured the well-being of Laban’s flocks.
In summary, Genesis 31:38 showcases Jacob’s faithfulness and honesty during his time of service to Laban. It reveals his commitment to his responsibilities and his acknowledgment of God’s provision and blessing. This verse serves as a reminder to us of the importance of integrity and trustworthiness in our own dealings, even in challenging circumstances.
