A House Divided

One of the saddest stories in the Bible is about the family of Jacob. They are a terrible example of a divided house, and it cost them greatly to be so. Amos 3:3 says, "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" The word "together" means united and "agreed" means to meet by appointment. Can you walk with someone unless you are united in purpose and have settled on a starting time and location? Do you have a divided home or church?

A divide and conquer strategy is popular today. "Cause confusion in the enemy camp. Get them at each other's throats so they pay less attention to fighting you."

This is exactly what our enemy wants to do to us as well. He wants to divide us so he can conquer us. We must not let our homes or churches be divided.

In the story of Jacob's life, we see many accurate pictures of what a divided home looks like. Ask yourself these probing questions as we take a look.

Rebekah instructs/helps Jacob deceive her husband. (Genesis 27)

Do you try to solve issues that you believe your mate has handled wrongly?

Rebekah says she is sending Jacob away to get a proper wife. (Genesis 27:42-46)

Do you seek to make a decision look spiritual instead of revealing the true motive?

Rachel and Leah gave their handmaids in a competition of childbearing. (Genesis 30:1-21)

Do you try to make up for your lack of abilities by taking matters into your own hands?

Rachel blamed Jacob for her lack of children. (Genesis 30:1-2)

Do you blame those who have nothing to do with the problem?

The brothers were convinced their current problems were a result of past unresolved sins against Joseph. (Genesis 42:21-23)

Are you reminded of sins that you have never made right when something bad happens to you? Do you feel God may be judging you?

We must be honest when we consider these questions. We must confess to God and others where we have been wrong.

What results/consequences are we faced with when considering a divided home?

Envy (Genesis 30:1; 37:11) – Rachel, Leah, and the brothers

To be jealous of; zealous for; to excite to jealous anger.

This is an intensive, repeated, extended action. Jealousy is feeling resentment against someone because of rivalry, success, or advantage.

Anger (Genesis 30:2) – Jacob against Rachel

To be displeased, to breathe hard.

The word kindled means "to burn". This appears to be an ongoing frustration between them.

Multiplied division - Division produces more division. (Genesis 30:3-4; 9-10)
Rivalry (Genesis 37:4)
Intimidation (Genesis 32:6)
Favoritism (Genesis 25:28)

A home or church divided will fail on many levels. Yours will not be the exception, though Satan will try to convince you otherwise. How are you trying to get your own way?

How can we avoid or remedy a situation like this?

Be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 4:3; 5:18)

Is it obvious that you are being controlled by the Spirit of God?

Be saturated with the Word of God (Psalm 1:2-3)

Is it a priority to be in God's Word and do you think of it throughout the day?

Be submissive to authority (Ephesians 5:22; 6:1-2; Colossians 3:18; Hebrews 13:17)

No authority is perfect but we must submit not criticize. How is your submission?

Be satisfied with God (Psalm 17:15; 65:4)

God is in complete control of everything. He alone can meet your every need. Will you depend on Him?

Be selfless (Philippians 4:2; John 13:14)

Life is not all about us. Who can you serve today? What ambition, goal, or dream of your own can you lay aside to see someone else successful in his/hers.

In closing, is your own way so important that you are willing to pass on to your children, grandchildren, or church members envy, anger, division, rivalry, intimidation, favoritism, and failure? Don't let Satan divide and conquer in your home or church. Don't let the enemy win.