This is a simplified version of the Bible story found in Genesis 31, written for children to understand. For the original version, please refer to the Bible passage.
Once upon a time, there was a man named Jacob. He had a father named Isaac and a grandfather named Abraham. Jacob had two wives named Rachel and Leah, and he worked for their father, Laban. Jacob took care of Laban’s sheep and goats and became very wealthy.
One day, Jacob heard that Laban’s sons were talking about him behind his back. They said that Jacob had taken all their father’s belongings and become very rich. Jacob also noticed that Laban didn’t treat him as kindly as before. Then, God spoke to Jacob and told him to go back to the land where his family lived, and He would be with Jacob.
So Jacob called his wives to come with him and told them about God’s message. Rachel and Leah agreed to go with him, even though Laban treated them like strangers and took their money. Jacob told them how Laban had tricked him, but God protected Jacob’s animals and made them healthy and strong. Jacob also had a dream where an angel told him to leave and go back to his family.
So Jacob took all of his family and animals and left while Laban was away. Rachel took some of her father’s idols, which were like statues that people worshiped, without telling Jacob. When Laban found out, he was angry and chased after them for seven days.
God spoke to Laban in a dream and told him not to harm Jacob. When Laban caught up with Jacob, he accused Jacob of stealing from him and not saying goodbye. Jacob got angry and told Laban about all the hard work he did for him and how Laban changed Jacob’s pay ten times. Jacob said that if God hadn’t been with him, Laban would have sent him away with nothing.
Then, Laban said to Jacob, “What have you done? Why did you trick me and take my daughters and grandchildren away from me like they were captured in a war? Why did you leave without telling me? I could have given you a happy goodbye with music and celebration. Now, I have the power to hurt you, but God spoke to me in a dream and told me not to harm you.”
Jacob replied, “I left because I was afraid that you would take your daughters away from me. I worked hard for you for 20 years, and you changed my pay many times. But God saw how you treated me and protected me. If anyone has your idols, they will die. Let’s make a deal and promise not to harm each other.”
So, Jacob and Laban made a promise and built a pile of stones as a sign of their agreement. They also had a meal together, and Laban kissed his grandchildren and daughters goodbye before going home. Jacob continued his journey to see his family.
Biblical Lessons
- God is always with His people, even when they face difficulties.
- It is important to trust God and follow His instructions.
- Honesty is always the best policy, and stealing is wrong.
- Forgiveness and making peace are essential to having good relationships.
- Keeping promises is important and should be taken seriously.