Jacob worked without wages for fourteen years. Faced with a large and growing family, Jacob needed money. It's easy to think that the greatest physical and spiritual challenges afflict the poor. But Jacob found out that much money brings its own problems. What can we learn about keeping money in its proper place as we watch Jacob wrestle with newfound wealth?

Read Genesis 30:25-43

1. Everyone could see how much money Jacob had made for Laban. Why didn't Jacob ask for a cut of the profits when he asked to leave in Genesis 30:26?

Answer: Jacob had agreed to 14 years labor for his two wives. He wasn't going to try and renogiate a contract made in good faith. Even though the contract was unfair, Jacob upheld his end.

2. Agree or Disagree? It's sinful to try and renegotiate a contract that you agreed to in good faith.

Answer: It would be sinful to be in breach of contract. Let your yes be yes and your no, no. However, both parties can agree to change the contract.

3. The wage Jacob suggested seemed quite modest. The cattle he asked for were irregularities, making his prospective pay low. Agree or Disagree? Jacob's request was a fruit of faith in the God of Bethel.

Answer: Yes. It seems that he is placing his future entirely in God's hands.

4. What do you learn about Laban's attitude towards material possessions in verse Genesis 30:34? In Genesis 30:35-36?

Answer: He quickly agreed to an inexcusably modest wage. Again, he was willing to cheat his relative. In Genesis 30:34-35 we see that his greed makes him think everyone else is as big of a cheat as he.
 
5. Agree or Disagree? Using branches and breeding, Jacob tried to cheat Laban, the man who cheated him. (see Genesis 30:38-42)

Answer: In chapter 31 we see just how honestly Jacob worked for his employer. No one could accuse him of stealing from his employer.

6. Jacob earned a great deal of money. How do you see him keeping it in its proper place?

Answer: Providing for family. Doing it honestly and with hard work. Giving credit to God.

7. The love of money can ruin relationships. Explain how it ruined these relationships of the sons of Laban and Jacob; Laban and Jacob; and Rachel and Leah and Laban.

Answer: What an appropriate end to this account, that Jacob offers up a sacrifice to God. We don't see Laban or his sons giving of their wealth to God, because money had become their God. But Jacob took of his blessings and gave thanks to the One who gave it.

8. The LORD told Jacob to return to Canaan, and promised to be with him. Why was the promise especially poignant and comforting?