Laban’s Twisted Reality

Genesis 30 & 31

The scene opens with Laban asking, “Why did you slip away secretly? Why did you deceive me? And why didn’t you say you wanted to leave?….” Genesis‬ ‭31‬:‭27‬ NLT

I can see Jacob standing there, blinking hard, and staring at Laban in disbelief, wondering, “Are delusional, Man? I’ve been wanting to leave your land for twenty years. (Genesis 31:41 NLT) I stayed thirteens years longer than I should have because of YOUR lies, and you’re questioning MY honor and motives?!”

Laban’s twisted reality swells with, “…I would have given you a farewell feast, with singing and music, accompanied by tambourines and harps.” Genesis‬ ‭31‬:‭27‬‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Say what? Even those of us without clinical psychology degrees know that’s not how narcissists work, and Laban’s historic actions prove it.

But God protects His children and provides for them despite any form of exploitation. “…if the God of my father had not been on my side—the God of Abraham and the fearsome God of Isaac—you would have sent me away empty-handed. But God has seen your abuse and my hard work.…” Genesis‬ ‭31‬:‭42‬ I love this reminder. No matter what we’re going through, God sees!