2/2

Genesis 35:2-3

2So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Put away the foreign gods that are among you and purify yourselves and change your garments. 3Then let us arise and go up to Bethel, so that I may make there an altar to the God who answers me in the day of my distress and has been with me wherever I have gone."


God called Jacob back to the place He had first appeared to him. Remember Jacob had made a promise that if the LORD brought him back safely, then he would make Him his God. Even though God has spoken to him, preserved him, and prospered him beyond his wildest dreams, Jacob had allowed those in his family to keep little idols to worship. God patiently puts up with our superstitions, but there comes a point in time when we must forsake them all and rely on Him alone. There is a turning point when we must clean up our life if we are to go on with Him.

Jacob referred to God as "the God who answers me in the day of my distress and has been with me wherever I have gone." There is no God like our God. He has never changed, and He will be the same with you. He will answer you in the day of your distress if you will look to Him alone. He will be with you wherever you go. That knowledge is comfort for our souls and peace for our hearts.

Consider: Are you still hanging on to little gods, trusting in money, in your intellect, or in a person? Have you come to the point when it is time to clean up your life and worship God alone? Do you know Him as the God who answers you in the day of your distress and has been with you wherever you have gone? Worship Him alone!