Counterfeit Gods Week 2

Genesis 29 – Idolatry of a spouse
Did any of you guys ask for your wife’s hand in marriage from her father?
Not that your wife is an idol in your life, but today we are going to look at a story in the OT where some people sought meaning and purpose for their lives through the relationship they had with their spouse.
Jacob had just stolen the birthright from Esau. (Isaac had blessed Jacob). He left.

Genesis 29:13-20 Romantic Love
Why do you think time passed so quickly for Jacob?
We normally think of this story of a picture of undying romantic love, but is there a chance that Rachel had taken a place in Jacob’s heart above God?
What characteristics do we see to describe Rachel? Beautiful in face and form. Anything Else?
How does physical beauty fit into our culture today?
Does anyone pursue physical beauty more than they pursue God?

What do you think Jacob was thinking about for 7 years?
If I could just have Rachel as my wife, life would be great. She would meet my need for: _________ .

Genesis 29:21-30 Jacob in Heat
What was the main reason that Jacob gave to Laban for getting this show on the road? – To lie with her.
Who can describe how Jacob felt that first morning?
When we try to get something that only God can give from any relationship, it is a disappointment.
New toy? Leah. New car? Leah. New wife? Leah.
I’m not saying never try to do better (job, home, anything in its proper place), but to elevate anything to the level of providing what only God can give will disappoint.

Genesis 29:31 – 30:2 Leah’s children
What was Leah’s focus in chapter 29?
How did she think sons would change her life? 34?
Have you ever known anyone who thought children would solve marriage problems?
Leah was looking to children to help her reach her ultimate goal, being loved by Jacob. Until v35.
Then she finally realized that her love, security, position, and everything else was in God’s hands.

How did Rachel view Jacob?
How did Jacob respond to Rachel’s request for children?

The verses following describe how the two maids bore children for Jacob, then Rachel has Joseph.
Do you think that Rachel was able to fulfill Jacob’s expectations of her?

Each of the people in this story had a deep longing to be loved, and tried to find someone to fulfill that longing. We see that for the most part (except Leah) their expectations were not met. This is the same thing that happens today. Only God can fill that void in our hearts.