Central Truth

The Lord saw Leah and Rachel in their present situations and acted.

Reflections

Life is difficult and doesn't always seem fair, but God is always present and is aware of your situation.

Both women in this story face difficult situations which are common throughout history. Many men and women in this world have experienced an unhappy life with an unloving spouse. Many others have never experienced the joy or pleasure of creating new life. It almost seems like both women are destined to be happy, and yet they're unhappy in an unfair situation in which the other has what their heart desires. Thankfully, God is present in both women's lives and is aware of their situations. After all, in this chapter He blesses the oldest, Leah, with four sons which was then, and is still, a crown upon her and her household's head. The younger sister, Rachel, He blesses with a husband who is deeply in love with her, something that provides feelings of great comfort and happiness from within.

God's presence and blessings in our lives can easily be overlooked when we focus our heart's desires on that which we don't have. We must remember that "the LORD saw" and acted on behalf of both sisters. There have been many times in my life where I have seen others given the things that my heart desires, all the while overlooking all that God has blessed me with. There have also been many times in my life where the situation has been reversed.

There are many lessons that can be taken from this passage, as well as much that can be learned about God's character. But I found that I learned most that I need to be cognizant of the fact that the Lord sees my life and will act on my behalf for the better. As the Lord said through the prophet Jeremiah, "For I know the plans I have for you . . . plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Discussion Questions

1. What are some of the blessings that you have received but simply overlooked without giving credit/glory to God?

2. How can you acknowledge God today for what He has given you?

3. How might you now be able to celebrate with the someone who received the blessing that your heart desired?