1. Benjamin's birth--Rachel's death (16-19)

A commitment to God does not guarantee an easy, trouble-free life. Jacob was changed to Israel, but the seeds sown during his life of struggle with men were still there to bear bitter fruit. Rachel was not satisfied with one son; she wanted another (30:24). God granted her desire, and Benjamin was born. But her ambition cost her life. With her dying breath she named her son, 'trouble.' But Jacob accepted him and called him, 'son of my right hand.'

2. Reuben's sin; Isaac's death (22-29)

Jacob was sad when Simeon and Levi acted in violence. Now, Jacob's firstborn Reuben committed a grave sin that cost him his birthright as the eldest son (Ge 49:1-7). The three oldest sons were disqualified, so the birthright went to Judah. Jacob and Esau made peace as they buried their father together. Isaac's death and Esau's genealogy (36) marked the end of a period of history.

Application: Lord, help me to remember your grace in times of joy and sorrow.
One Word: The God of history is our God