Lions to Lambs

Genesis 33

Esau was in a foul murderous rage the last time Jacob saw him. He promised nothing but harm to his twin and had every opportunity, ability and intention of carrying out his nefarious objective. Jacob knew his brother well enough to know that he would do it, and he knew enough to know when to run. Jacob was a lot like modern-day tricksters, quick with his mind, and also quick with his feet.

Against this background, you can understand the apprehension he felt as he prepared to meet his brother, whom he expected would redirect him to his Maker. He did everything possible to tire his brother. He sent servants, flock and finally his own kin to meet his brother before he did. When they finally did meet, his brother went for his neck in a bear-hugging embrace instead of a death inducing choke hold. Jacob didn’t expect this, just as much as he didn’t expect Laban to peaceably leave him and family to go. God had tempered Esau and made him prosperous in his own right. He was no longer the wild, revenge-seeking twin robbed of his birth-right and blessing.

You are getting ready to face a lion, today, tomorrow, next week….soon. You are almost breathless in fear, yet God is currently at work tempering your adversary. God can turn that lion into a lamb, from ferocious to meek. If God could turn Esau’s heart away from murder to peace, he can turn your forthcoming test to a flying success. Begin to trust Him and to wrestle with Him in prayer. The prayer doesn’t change God; it strengthens you to believe more and more in Him.