Genesis 31:16

For all the riches, &c.— Another reason here offers itself to justify Jacob. The daughters of Laban justly complain of their father's treatment, who had behaved to them as if they had been slaves, not daughters; and assert, that the gracious God who had so blessed their husband, herein had only caused Laban to do that involuntarily which he ought to have done freely; had only administered to them that justice, and given to them those riches, which their father had withheld: consequently he could not be wronged by the divine consignment of them to the proper owners.

REFLECTIONS.—Jacob's great increase becomes now a dangerous snare; but God makes it the means of hastening him home the sooner. So easily can his providence change our dangers into blessings.

1. Laban's sons beheld with indignation the flocks of Jacob, and talked as if they only wanted occasion to take back the fruit of his bargain. They counted his share all, and saw his sheep magnified with the eyes of covetousness; while Laban himself, though he said nothing, betrayed in his countenance the same sentiments. Note; (1.) Envious minds cannot bear that others should prosper more than themselves, especially in their own profession. (2.) The things of this world appear glorious to those who place their happiness in them; but they are little in the eyes of him who hath seen by faith the glories of a better.

2. Jacob hereupon resolves to decamp, under the divine guidance and direction. The God of Beth-el, to whom he owed all his success, who directed him by a vision how to act, now bids him be gone, and will protect him in his return. Note; (1.) When worldly prosperity increases, we are most tempted to take up our rest here; it is well then to think of our home in heaven. (2.) While our worldly blessings come as covenant-blessings, they are doubly sweet. (3.) When we have gone out under God's guidance, we need not fear returning safe.

3. He acquaints his wives with his resolution, but privately, for fear of Laban, and gives them his reasons. Note; The husband, in matters of importance to his family, should consult his wife, who, as the partner of his fortune, should be the partner of his heart. They readily consent, conscious of the truth of his complaints and the justice of his arguments. What Jacob had got was not only his wages, but their just portion; they prefer therefore their husband, as bounden, to their father's house, and are ready to go wherever or to whatever God is pleased to call him.