Let God Prevail

How do you secure for yourself a blessing from God? You might say that the account of Jacob, grandson of Abraham and Sarah, is the story of a man who learned the answer to that question. In a culture where the firstborn son received a birthright blessing, Jacob was born second, grasping the heel of his twin brother, Esau. The name “Jacob” means “supplanter”—one who replaces someone else. Jacob lived up to that name by trying, more than once, to supplant Esau as inheritor of the birthright blessing because Esau was unworthy of it (see Genesis 25:30–34; 26:34–35; 27:36). The result was discord in the family, and Jacob had to flee for his life into the wilderness.3

Years later, God commanded Jacob to return home. On the way, Jacob, in humility, again sought a blessing from God. The scriptures describe this time as a “wrestle” for Jacob, and he declared that he would not give up “except thou bless me” (Genesis 32:26). Then came the lesson—and the blessing. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel—meaning, among other things, “let God prevail.” Israel learned that to receive God’s most valuable blessings, His covenant blessings, it’s not necessary to supplant someone else. His blessings aren’t purchased or seized or won. He gives them freely to all who live up to the name of Israel—who let God prevail in their lives.1

While reading Genesis 24, ask yourself why Abraham considered the marriage of his son Isaac to be so important. Why is marriage important to God?1

In Isaac and Rebekah’s culture, the oldest son received the birthright, which meant a greater inheritance, along with greater responsibilities for caring for the family. As you read Genesis 25:29–34, ponder why Esau might have been willing to give up his birthright in exchange for a meal. What lessons do you find for yourself in this account? It might help to make two lists: (1) eternal blessings God wants to give you and (2) worldly things that might distract you. Then you could read the passage, replacing “birthright” with something from the first list and “pottage” with something from the second. How will you focus on the Savior and the eternal blessings of His gospel?1

See also Matthew 6:19–33; M. Russell Ballard, “Remember What Matters Most,” Liahona, May 2023, 105–7.2

While sleeping on a pillow of stones, Jacob had a life-changing dream. It was such a sacred experience that Jacob named the place Bethel, or “house of God,” declaring, “Surely the Lord is in this place” (Genesis 28:16).1

As you read Genesis 28, you might ask yourself what made this experience so sacred to Jacob. What was he going through at the time? How might he have been feeling? You could also look for words and phrases in verses 10–22 that remind you of the house of the Lord. What impressions do you receive about God, His house, and His covenants?1

The hymn “Nearer, My God, to Thee” (Hymns, no. 100) is based on Jacob’s experience. What connections do you see between this song and Genesis 28:10–22? How does the temple help you feel nearer to God? Consider looking for answers to this question in President Russell M. Nelson’s message “The Temple and Your Spiritual Foundation” (Liahona, Nov. 2021, 93–96). You may also want to review the covenants and blessings of the house of the Lord in General Handbook, 27.2 (Gospel Library). How does keeping these covenants bring God’s power into your life?1

As you read Genesis 29:31–35 and 30:1–24, look for words describing God’s mercy to Rachel and Leah. Ponder how God has “looked upon [your] affliction” and “remembered” you (Genesis 29:32; 30:22).3

As Jacob returned to Canaan, he was “greatly afraid and distressed” about how his brother, Esau, would receive him (Genesis 32:7). As you read Genesis 32–33, ponder your own family relationships—perhaps especially one that needs healing. Maybe this story could inspire you to reach out to someone. Questions like these could guide your reading:2

What stands out to you about Jacob’s prayer found in Genesis 32:9–12?1

To highlight Rebekah’s impressive example of kindness, you could show your children the picture below or this week’s activity page as you summarize the story in Genesis 24:10–21. Your children might enjoy acting out the story. This could lead to a conversation about acts of kindness you and your children have seen.1

Consider using “Jacob and Esau” (in Old Testament Stories, 38–41) to help your children understand the story in Genesis 25:21–34. Maybe your children could imagine that Esau asked for their advice about whether he should trade his birthright for the pottage. What would they say to him? 2:5Jacob and Esau1

As you read Genesis 28:10–22 together, you could use a ladder or a staircase (or a picture like the one at the end of this outline) to talk about how our covenants are like a ladder. Maybe your children could pretend to climb a ladder, and with each step, talk about times when we promise to obey God, such as when we are baptized, take the sacrament, or go to the temple. How do our covenants bring us closer to God?1

To introduce these verses, you might explain that after many years of hard feelings, Jacob was going to meet Esau again. Read together Genesis 32:6–11. How did Jacob feel? What did he do to get help? Read together Genesis 33:1–4 to discover how the Lord answered Jacob’s prayer. If Jacob and Esau could talk to us today, what might they say to help us when there is contention in our family?2