“And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, ‘Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not.’ And he was afraid, and said, ‘How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.’ ” Genesis 28:16-17 (KJV)
On his journey, Jacob made camp in the house of God, but did not know where he was. He was so close to God, but still so far away. Spiritually, Jacob was lost and did not know the God of Isaac and Abraham. Tired from his journey, he laid down, slept, and dreamed. Finally, in his dream state, Jacob was quiet enough to hear God speak to him.
While he dreamed, Jacob saw God’s stairway (v. 12). In addition, God spoke to him and gave him promises (v. 14-15). So Jacob realized this wasn’t a dream after all and shook off the sleep. In his mercy, God had led him to the gate of heaven. There God gave Jacob an opportunity to serve him.
This experience with God changed Jacob’s life. Fear got his attention. His own lack of spiritual awareness scared him. He understood the dread of being in God’s presence without knowing it. His perspective improved. He learned to be sensitive to God in all places at all times. God was the same, but Jacob was changed.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Empower us to live and operate in the House of God at the Gate of Heaven. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today as you encounter God,