Rachel from the Bible and Life lessons we could learn from her!

Facts about Rachel in the Bible

1. The name Rachel means “ewe”.
2. Rachel died young, even for biblical times.
    - She was only 36 when she died.
3. She is a national symbol of a praying mother.
    - The prophet Jeremiah prophesied about Rachel: “A voice is heard on high … Rachel is weeping for her children …” Even after biblical times, “Mother Rachel” continued to be celebrated as a powerful intercessor for the people of Israel.
Here are a few lessons that we can take from Rachel and her story.

1. God is in control

When Rachel faced infertility, she took her frustration out on her husband, Jacob. Jacob, obviously wasn’t happy to be the brunt of her anger and reminded her that God is in control.

How often have you done this? In your frustration or anger lashed out at someone close to you? Sadly I practically do this very often. But we ought to realise that our loved ones should be there to listen and console, but they simply aren’t God. They can pray for us and with us, but they can’t control a situation – only God can.

2. No one wins with jealousy

There’s sibling rivalry and then there’s Rachel and Leah. Rachel was jealous of Leah as Leah was, it seemed, able to easily conceive while Rachel struggled. Instead of being happy for her sister, she was resentful of her.

While Rachel was jealous of her sister’s flourishing womb, Rachel was clearly loved by Jacob more than Leah. Her barrenness made her feel insecure, but from what we read in scripture, Jacob couldn’t have loved her more even if she could bear children.

3. Nagging doesn’t get you anywhere

Jacob was so fed up with Rachel’s complaining that he often resorted to sleeping in the fields. Her nagging didn’t make the situation better. In fact, it made it worse.

I’m not saying that you shouldn’t share things with your spouse. Of course you should. But, if he/she is not the one to can affect/change (and only God can), share your heart then move on. It will be healthier for your relationship in the long run.

4. Love others, even when you don’t feel like it

It wasn’t Leah’s fault that Laban pulled a switcheroo on Jacob and forced him to marry Leah first. But Rachel didn’t like giving up her position as first wife.

Can you think of anyone in your life that you just don’t like? Sadly, I know that I can. But, ya know what? God commands us to love them, anyway. 

5. Avoid vengeance

It is not for us to take revenge. That is God’s job.

Rachel stole her father’s idols at an act of revenge for what she saw as her father’s mistreatment of Jacob. Had she let God deal with the revenge, it certainly would have prevented Jacob from making that oath and Rachel from lying.

6. Be satisfied and grateful, not always seeking “more”

When Rachel finally was blessed with a child, instead of being happy and feeling grateful, she was so focused on one-upping her sister that she wanted more. More children. Even more love of Jacob’s. More money from the bride price.

God has given you exactly what He feels you need. Be grateful for what you have. Thank Him for it. Don’t second guess God and His plans by always seeking more. 

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