TEXT - Genesis 30:1-24
As the story of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel continues, we get a glimpse into the devastating effects of idolatry. Rachel is loved by Jacob, but longs for the satisfaction she thinks bearing children will bring. Leah has children, but longs for the love of her husband. We learn from this story an essential life-lesson summed up well by Augustine: "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in you."
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
What problems are Rachel and Leah facing in this chapter? What solutions do they attempt?
What is idolatry? As you consider the actions of Rachel and Leah in this chapter, what idols are revealed?
What glimpses of God’s gracious work do you see in the midst of this messy family drama?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
Identify Your Idols- Read Jeremiah 2:13 with Genesis 30 in mind. How have you forsaken God and sought fulfillment elsewhere?
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
Confronting Your Idols- Take some time to read through this helpful chart. Work through the 5 steps of confronting your idols:
Name your idol(s) out loud.
Confess your heart’s dependence to God and one another.
Repent (turn from) the idol(s) in your life.
Rejoice in the absolute certainty of Jesus’ mastery of your life.
Replace your idol(s) with a renewed passion for the gospel of Jesus Christ.