A Journey on Your Own Terms: Jacob’s 21 Years with Laban

In this message from November 17, 1991, Rev. Chuck Rains continues the study of Jacob’s life — a man walking a 21-year path of striving, frustration, and self-reliance. Through Jacob’s experiences with Laban and his impulsive choices at the well, we’re reminded of the emptiness of doing things our own way, even when our intentions seem good.
Rev. Rains draws a powerful parallel to modern faith struggles — urging believers to trust God’s timing and foundation rather than their emotions or desires. The episode concludes with a moving real-life example of the cost of setting aside God’s counsel and the redemption found in returning to His will.
“You can’t find happiness on your terms — only on God’s terms.”

Show Notes
Scripture Focus:
• Genesis 29 — Jacob’s meeting with Rachel
• 2 Corinthians 6:14–18 — “Do not be unequally yoked…”
• 1 Corinthians 6:19–20; 7:39 — Our bodies as temples, living “in the Lord”
Key Themes:
• Jacob’s 21-year journey as a portrait of self-willed living
• Acting in emotion vs. walking in faith
• The danger of “good intentions” outside of God’s foundation
• Unequal yokes: spiritual consequences of disobedience
• God’s mercy in redeeming failure and restoring purpose
Memorable Quote:
“You can’t find happiness except in the One who is the author of it — the Lord Himself.”
Application Points:
1 Don’t rationalize disobedience — even “good” actions can be wrong if the motive isn’t from faith.
2 Emotions are gifts from God, but never meant to drive our decisions.
3 Trust God’s foundation — His counsel never robs you of joy; it preserves it.
4 It’s never too late to return to God’s will — He redeems even wasted years.

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