The memories of deceiving others are hard to forget.
Just for your thoughts.
After twenty years, Jacob obeyed God's command and set out toward Bethel. Yet, on that journey, he was faced with the prospect of meeting his brother Esau, whom he had deceived years earlier. Although he was walking in obedience to God's command, the memories of his past did not leave him. Jacob had not forgotten how he himself had been deceived by Laban in various ways over those twenty years. He knew very well the pain and consequences of being deceived.
Because of this, he sent generous gifts ahead through his servants in an effort to appease Esau. He was afraid to face him. He even made plans to protect himself and his family in case Esau attacked. He addressed his brother as “my lord” and earnestly prayed to God for protection.
Although God had forgiven and preserved Jacob, it appears that he approached Esau with humility, seeking reconciliation because he recognized the wrong he had done to his brother. In the life of a person who knows God, there should likewise be genuine repentance and a willingness to make things right with those whom we have wronged.
Even after God forgives us, we should not continue living under the burden of guilt. At the same time, we should not become careless and forget the wrongs we have committed. Rather, we should acknowledge any injustice we have caused and, as far as possible, seek peace and reconciliation with others. Without such humility and a sense of responsibility, our Christian life can become insensitive and superficial.
In this way, Jacob’s life serves as a valuable example of humility, the pursuit of reconciliation, and dependence upon God.