1. God renewed his covenant with Jacob (1-15)

When Jacob lost his life direction by killing all the males of Shechem, God helped him to return to keep his vow in Bethel. When Jacob obeyed God wholeheartedly by getting rid of all idols from his families, the terror of the Lord fell and no one pursued them. He safely returned to Bethel, made an altar and worshiped God, calling, "El Bethel," God of Bethel. God confirmed his name as Israel and renewed his covenant to prosper his descendants to inherit the Promised Land. We must return to God and restore our first love for God in our times of difficulty, for God is our only helper.

2. God raised 12 patriarchs (16-29)

Later Rachel died after giving birth to Benjamin, the 12th son of Jacob. God thus established 12 patriarchs in times of adversity and hardship in Paddan Aram. God keeps his promises. He prospers us even when our life is messed up with so many troubles in this world. It's because we are his covenant people through Jesus.