A Mother’s Huge Foresight
Isaac Megbolugbe
April 15, 2025
Introduction: Lessons from Rebecca and Jacob
In the biblical narrative, Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away to escape the wrath of his brother Esau is a powerful example of a mother’s huge foresight. Recognizing the potential dangers that lurked in their midst, Rebecca took proactive steps to safeguard Jacob’s well-being, setting in motion a chain of events that would shape the course of his life and the future of the 12 Tribes of Israel.
As I reflect on my own life’s journey, I am reminded of the profound impact of my mother’s decision to send me away to Ifaki-Ekiti in the late 1950s. Though I was only a young boy at the time, my mother’s actions would have far-reaching consequences, shaping my character, fostering independence, and paving the way for my future successes.
In this article, I will explore the concept of a mother’s huge foresight, drawing on the biblical story of Rebecca and Jacob, as well as my own personal reflections. I will examine the ways in which a mother’s wisdom, love, and sacrifice can have a lasting impact on her children’s lives, shaping their destinies and setting them on a path towards success and fulfillment.
The Rebecca and Jacob Story
In the biblical narrative, Rebecca, the wife of Isaac and mother of Jacob and Esau, is often overlooked as a pivotal figure in the story of God’s redemption plan. However, with the benefit of hindsight, it becomes clear that Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away was a masterstroke of maternal foresight, setting in motion a chain of events that would shape the course of human history.
A Mother’s Instincts
Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away was not taken lightly. According to the biblical account in Genesis 27-28, Rebecca’s actions were motivated by her desire to ensure Jacob’s safety and well-being. With Esau’s anger and resentment towards Jacob simmering just below the surface, Rebecca recognized the potential danger that Jacob faced if he remained at home.
A Pivotal Moment in Jacob’s Journey
By sending Jacob away, Rebecca created an opportunity for him to become the patriarch of the 12 Tribes of Israel. This was no ordinary journey, as Jacob’s experiences would shape the very fabric of Israel’s identity and destiny. Rebecca’s decision allowed Jacob to:
1. Encounter God: Jacob’s journey led him to encounter God in a profound way, receiving the blessing and promise that would shape his future (Genesis 28:10-22).
2. Develop Leadership Skills: Jacob’s experiences, including his time with Laban and his eventual return to Canaan, helped him develop the leadership skills and character necessary to become the patriarch of Israel.
3. Establish the 12 Tribes: Jacob’s marriage to Leah and Rachel, and his relationships with their children, laid the foundation for the establishment of the 12 Tribes of Israel.
The Cornerstone of God’s Redemption Plan
Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away had far-reaching consequences that extended beyond Jacob’s personal journey. By becoming the patriarch of the 12 Tribes of Israel, Jacob played a crucial role in the unfolding of God’s redemption plan for humanity.
The 12 Tribes of Israel would become the vehicle through which God would:
1. Establish His Covenant: God’s covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob would be fulfilled through the 12 Tribes, providing a framework for understanding God’s relationship with His people.
2. Reveal His Character: The history of the 12 Tribes would serve as a backdrop for revealing God’s character, including His justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
3. Prepare for the Messiah: The 12 Tribes would play a significant role in preparing the way for the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would ultimately fulfill God’s redemption plan.
Conclusion
Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away was a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, setting in motion a chain of events that would shape the course of human history. With the benefit of hindsight, we can see that Rebecca’s actions were motivated by a deep understanding of God’s plan and a desire to ensure Jacob’s safety and well-being. As we reflect on Rebecca’s story, we are reminded of the significant role that mothers play in shaping the lives of their children and the world around them. Rebecca’s huge foresight serves as a powerful example of the impact that one person can have on the course of history.
The Legacy of Rebecca’s Decision
Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away had far-reaching consequences that extended beyond her immediate family. Her actions:
1. Shaped the Course of Israel’s History: Jacob’s journey and eventual return to Canaan laid the foundation for the establishment of the 12 Tribes of Israel.
2. Influenced the Development of Judaism: The 12 Tribes of Israel would become the cornerstone of Judaism, shaping the faith’s practices, traditions, and identity.
3. Played a Role in the Fulfillment of God’s Redemption Plan: The 12 Tribes of Israel would serve as a vehicle for God’s redemption plan, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ.
Lessons from Rebecca’s Story
Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away offers valuable lessons for parents, leaders, and individuals:
1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Rebecca’s actions demonstrate her trust in God’s sovereignty and plan, even in uncertain circumstances.
2. Courage in the Face of Uncertainty: Rebecca showed remarkable courage in sending Jacob away, despite the risks and uncertainties involved.
3. The Power of Selfless Love: Rebecca’s decision was motivated by her selfless love for Jacob and her desire to ensure his well-being.
Conclusion
Rebecca’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the significant impact that one person can have on the course of history. Her decision to send Jacob away was a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, shaping the course of Israel’s history and influencing the development of Judaism.
As we reflect on Rebecca’s legacy, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God’s sovereignty, demonstrating courage in the face of uncertainty, and showing selfless love for others.
Why Rebecca Sent Jacob Away
According to the biblical account in Genesis 27-28, Rebecca sent Jacob away due to a combination of factors:
1. Esau’s Anger and Threats
Esau, Jacob’s twin brother, was furious with Jacob for deceiving their father Isaac and stealing his blessing (Genesis 27:1-40). Esau threatened to kill Jacob, prompting Rebecca to intervene and protect her son.
2. Fear for Jacob’s Safety
Rebecca recognized the danger that Jacob faced if he remained at home. She knew that Esau’s anger would not subside quickly and that Jacob’s life was at risk.
3. Fulfilling God’s Plan
Rebecca also understood that Jacob was chosen by God to be the patriarch of the 12 Tribes of Israel (Genesis 25:23, 28:10-22). By sending Jacob away, Rebecca was, in effect, facilitating the fulfillment of God’s plan.
4. Protecting Family Dynamics
Additionally, Rebecca may have wanted to protect family dynamics by giving Esau space to calm down and preventing further conflict between the brothers.
Conclusion
Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away was motivated by a combination of factors, including Esau’s anger, fear for Jacob’s safety, fulfilling God’s plan, and protecting family dynamics. Her actions ultimately shaped the course of Jacob’s life and the future of the 12 Tribes of Israel.
The Struggles and Exploits of Jacob in Exile
Jacob’s exile was a transformative period in his life, marked by struggles and exploits that shaped his character and faith.
The Journey Begins
After deceiving his father Isaac to receive the blessing meant for Esau, Jacob fled to Mesopotamia to escape his brother’s wrath ¹. This journey marked the beginning of Jacob’s exile, during which he would face numerous challenges and grow in faith.
The Encounter with Laban
In Mesopotamia, Jacob met Laban, his mother’s brother, who would become his father-in-law and employer ¹. However, Laban’s intentions were not entirely pure, as he sought to exploit Jacob’s labor for his own gain. Despite this, Jacob worked diligently for Laban, eventually marrying his daughters Rachel and Leah.
The Struggle with Laban
Jacob’s relationship with Laban was marked by tension and deception. Laban changed Jacob’s wages ten times, attempting to cheat him out of his rightful compensation ¹. However, Jacob’s faithfulness and diligence ultimately prevailed, as he prospered despite Laban’s efforts to exploit him.
The Return to Canaan
After twenty years in exile, Jacob returned to Canaan, where he would face his brother Esau once again ¹. This reunion was marked by tension and uncertainty, but ultimately, Jacob’s faith and humility prevailed, as he was able to reconcile with his brother.
Lessons from Jacob’s Exile
Jacob’s exile serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, perseverance, and humility. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Jacob remained faithful to God and ultimately emerged victorious. His story continues to inspire and encourage believers today, offering valuable lessons for navigating life’s struggles and exploits.
Character Training for Jacob during Exile
Jacob’s exile was a transformative period in his life, marked by significant character training that prepared him for his future role as the patriarch of the 12 Tribes of Israel.
1. Humility
Jacob’s experiences during exile, including his deception by Laban and his struggles with poverty, helped to cultivate humility in his life [1]. He learned to rely on God’s providence and provision, rather than his own cunning and resourcefulness.
2. Perseverance
Jacob’s twenty years in exile were marked by hard work, perseverance, and determination [1]. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Jacob remained committed to his goals and ultimately achieved success.
3. Faithfulness
Jacob’s experiences during exile deepened his faith and trust in God [1]. He learned to rely on God’s promises and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty and adversity.
4. Responsibility
Jacob’s responsibilities as a shepherd and husband during exile helped to cultivate a sense of responsibility and accountability in his life [1]. He learned to prioritize his duties and obligations, even in challenging circumstances.
5. Forgiveness
Jacob’s experiences during exile, including his reconciliation with Esau, taught him the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation [1]. He learned to let go of past grievances and offenses, seeking instead to restore relationships and promote healing.
Conclusion
Jacob’s exile was a critical period in his life, marked by significant character training that prepared him for his future role as the patriarch of the 12 Tribes of Israel. Through his experiences, Jacob developed essential character traits, including humility, perseverance, faithfulness, responsibility, and forgiveness. These traits would serve him well in his future endeavors, enabling him to lead his family and community with wisdom, integrity, and compassion.
The Sovereignty of God in Jacob’s Exile
The sovereignty of God played a profound role in Jacob’s life during his exile, shaping his experiences, relationships, and ultimate destiny.
1. Divine Providence
God’s sovereignty was evident in Jacob’s journey to Mesopotamia, where he encountered Laban and eventually married his daughters Rachel and Leah (Genesis 29:1-30). Despite the challenges and uncertainties of his journey, Jacob experienced God’s providential care and guidance.
2. God’s Presence in the Ordinary
During his exile, Jacob’s experiences were marked by the ordinary and mundane aspects of life, such as herding sheep and working for Laban. Yet, even in these ordinary experiences, Jacob encountered God’s presence and sovereignty (Genesis 31:4-13).
3. The Angelic Encounter
One of the most significant experiences of Jacob’s exile was his encounter with the angel of God at the Jabbok River (Genesis 32:22-33). This experience marked a turning point in Jacob’s life, as he wrestled with God and received a new name, Israel.
4. God’s Sovereignty in Relationships
God’s sovereignty was also evident in Jacob’s relationships during his exile. His marriage to Rachel and Leah, as well as his relationships with Laban and Esau, were all shaped by God’s sovereign plan (Genesis 29-31, 33).
5. The Fulfillment of God’s Promises
Throughout Jacob’s exile, God’s sovereignty was demonstrated through the fulfillment of His promises. Despite the challenges and setbacks that Jacob faced, God remained faithful to His covenant promises, ultimately leading Jacob back to Canaan and establishing him as the patriarch of the 12 Tribes of Israel (Genesis 28:10-22, 35:1-15).
Conclusion
The sovereignty of God intersected with Jacob’s life experiences during his exile in profound ways. Through His providential care, presence in the ordinary, angelic encounters, sovereignty in relationships, and fulfillment of promises, God demonstrated His absolute control and guidance over Jacob’s life. As a result, Jacob’s exile became a transformative experience that shaped his faith, character, and ultimate destiny.
A Mother’s Huge Foresight: A Personal Reflection
As I sit in reflection, I am reminded of the profound impact my mother’s decisions had on my life. Her choice to send me away from our hometown of Kabba in Kogi State to Ifaki-Ekiti in the late 1950s was a turning point in my journey. This experience, though challenging at the time, would ultimately shape my character, foster independence, and pave the way for my future successes.
A Parallel with Rebecca’s Story
As I look back, I am struck by the parallels between my mother’s decision and that of Rebecca, the biblical matriarch, who sent Jacob away to escape the wrath of his brother Esau (Genesis 27-28). Like Rebecca, my mother demonstrated huge foresight in recognizing the potential dangers that lurked in our hometown, and taking proactive steps to protect me.
The Reason Behind My Mother’s Decision
My mother’s decision to send me away was motivated by a desire to safeguard my life. One of my father’s wives had threatened to harm the sons of my father, referring to us as “bushfield” that needed to be cleared. My mother, aware of the gravity of this threat, chose to send me away to ensure my safety.
Lessons Learned in Exile
During my time in Ifaki-Ekiti, I learned valuable lessons that would stay with me for the rest of my life. I served as a house boy and learned how to farm, developing skills that would later serve me well. Though I dropped out of school, my mother’s decision to send me away ultimately led to my restart of primary education in Yagbaland.
The Power of Resilience and Determination
My experiences in exile taught me the importance of resilience and determination. I learned to adapt to new environments, navigate challenges, and find opportunities for growth. These skills would serve me well in my future endeavors, including my successful sitting for the Ordinary and Advanced General Certification of Education.
A Career Spanning Decades
My mother’s decision to send me away also set me on a path that would lead to a career spanning over four decades in the United States. Though I was far from home, I remained committed to my goals, driven by the lessons I learned in exile.
Reflection and Gratitude
As I reflect on my mother’s decision, I am filled with gratitude for her foresight and wisdom. Though I resented being sent away at the time, I now understand the profound impact it had on my life. My mother’s choice to send me away was a testament to her love and commitment to my well-being, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my mother’s decision to send me away represents an exemplification of a mother’s huge foresight, much like Rebecca’s decision to send Jacob away in the biblical account. Through my experiences in exile, I learned valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and adaptability. As I look back, I am reminded of the profound impact my mother’s decision had on my life, and I am grateful for her wisdom and foresight.
The Long-Term Impact of My Mother’s Decision
My mother’s decision to send me away had a profound impact on my life, shaping my character, fostering independence, and paving the way for my future successes. The lessons I learned during my time in exile have stayed with me throughout my life, influencing my relationships, career choices, and overall worldview.
1. Resilience and Adaptability
My experiences in exile taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. I learned to navigate unfamiliar environments, adapt to new situations, and find opportunities for growth in the midst of challenges. These skills have served me well throughout my life, enabling me to thrive in a variety of contexts.
2. Independence and Self-Reliance
My time in exile also fostered independence and self-reliance. I learned to take care of myself, manage my own affairs, and make decisions without relying on others. These skills have been essential in my personal and professional life, enabling me to take calculated risks, pursue new opportunities, and achieve my goals.
3. Appreciation for Education
My experiences in exile also deepened my appreciation for education. Despite the challenges I faced, I remained committed to my studies, recognizing the value of education in unlocking opportunities and improving my circumstances. This appreciation for education has stayed with me throughout my life, influencing my career choices and shaping my worldview.
4. Strong Work Ethic
My time in exile also instilled in me a strong work ethic. I learned the value of hard work, diligence, and perseverance, recognizing that these qualities are essential for achieving success and realizing one’s goals. This strong work ethic has served me well throughout my life, enabling me to overcome obstacles, pursue new opportunities, and achieve my objectives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my mother’s decision to send me away was a turning point in my life, shaping my character, fostering independence, and paving the way for my future successes. The lessons I learned during my time in exile have stayed with me throughout my life, influencing my relationships, career choices, and overall worldview. I am grateful for my mother’s wisdom and foresight, recognizing that her decision was motivated by a desire to protect me and provide me with opportunities for growth and development.
The Power of a Mother’s Love and Foresight
My mother’s decision to send me away is a testament to the power of a mother’s love and foresight. Her actions, though difficult to understand at the time, were motivated by a deep desire to protect me and provide me with opportunities for growth and development.
1. A Mother’s Instincts
My mother’s decision to send me away was guided by her instincts as a mother. She recognized the potential dangers that lurked in our hometown and took proactive steps to safeguard my well-being.
2. A Mother’s Sacrifices
My mother’s decision to send me away also required significant sacrifices on her part. She had to let go of her desire to keep me close and instead prioritize my safety and well-being.
3. A Mother’s Vision
My mother’s decision to send me away was also guided by her vision for my future. She recognized that I had potential and wanted to provide me with opportunities to realize that potential.
The Legacy of My Mother’s Decision
My mother’s decision to send me away has had a lasting impact on my life. It taught me valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of education. It also instilled in me a strong work ethic and a desire to make the most of the opportunities that come my way.
1. A Lasting Impact
My mother’s decision to send me away has had a lasting impact on my life. It shaped my character, fostered independence, and paved the way for my future successes.
2. A Legacy of Love
My mother’s decision to send me away is a testame
