When my wife and I married many years ago, we stood before friends and family to pledge our faithfulness to each other—’til death do us part. All those guests served as witnesses to our commitment, celebrating with us as well as holding us accountable to our vows.

Jacob and his uncle Laban set up a pile of stones—a witness heap—to mark their vows not to harm each other in the future. The rocks marked the boundary between their tribes. Jacob then stood and took an oath in the name of the Fear of his father Isaac.

This name only appears here, spoken by Jacob before his family on one significant occasion.

Isaac still lived. His awe of God and dedication to the Lord impressed his son, so Jacob swore to a God he now called the Fear of his father.

Jacob deceived his father, stole his brother’s birthright and fled from home. Over the years, it seems that Jacob reflected on his actions. He now hoped to walk with the Lord wholeheartedly, matching the ways of his father. His father’s faith slowly seeped into his heart.

As a parent, I hope my faith serves as a positive example to my children and grandchildren. As an older believer, I hope my faith helps those who come after to turn to the Lord.

All any of us can do is fear the Lord—walk with Him in awe and dedication—and pray that future generations make vows in our names.

Genesis 31 in reading the Bible in 2023

Photo by Jessica Johnston