How should we respond when God speaks to us, as seen in Genesis 35:13? Setting the Scene “Then God went up from him at the place where He had spoken with him.” (Genesis 35:13) Jacob has just heard God reaffirm covenant promises, rename him Israel, and call him to live set apart. Verse 13 shows the encounter ending—God “went up.” That single sentence teaches volumes about how we should answer His voice. Respond with Reverence • Recognize the holy moment. When God speaks, it is never casual. • Guard against distraction; Jacob stayed in the place “where He had spoken.” • Echo Moses’ posture: “Here I am” (Exodus 3:4). Availability honors His presence. Respond with Remembrance • Immediately after God departs, Jacob sets up a pillar (v. 14). Memorials keep the word alive. • Record what He said—journal, mark a Bible margin, or share a testimony (Psalm 102:18). • Remembering yesterday’s word fuels faith for tomorrow’s obedience. Respond with Obedience • Jacob names the site Bethel and moves forward in covenant living (vv. 15–20). • Scripture consistently links hearing and doing: “Be doers of the word” (James 1:22). • Delayed obedience cools passion; prompt obedience seals conviction. Respond with Worship • Jacob pours out a drink offering and oil (v. 14). Word-inspired worship blesses God. • Worship aligns heart and mind, preventing pride or self-reliance (Psalm 95:6–8). • Gratitude keeps revelation from becoming mere information. Respond with Expectant Faith • God “went up,” but He was not gone for good—He would keep every promise (Genesis 46:4). • Live anticipating further direction (1 Samuel 3:10: “Speak, for Your servant is listening”). • Faith positions us to hear again and walk deeper into His purposes. Putting It All Together When God speaks: 1. Treat the moment as sacred. 2. Capture and remember His words. 3. Act on them without delay. 4. Worship in thankful surrender. 5. Keep listening in faith for what comes next. Following Jacob’s pattern turns a single encounter into a lifelong journey with God. |
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