All These Things Are Against Me

Jacob’s example should serve as a warning to us of the consequences of getting our eyes off the Lord and adopting a victim mentality.

I. ASSUMPTIONS ARE MADE THAT ARE DECEPTIVE (42:29-36)

A. Assumptions fail to see the whole picture
B. Assumptions are foolish and bring shame
C. Assumptions can injure others

II. ACTIONS ARE TAKEN WITHOUT DELIBERATION (42:37-38)

A. Decisions should be made prayerfully
B. Decisions should be made calmly
C. Decisions should be made deliberately
D. Counsel should be sought
E. Problems don’t disappear by ignoring them

III. ACCUSATION OF OTHERS FOR DIFFICULTIES (43:1-10)

A. Blame shifting is common
B. We ought to be problem solvers
C. It’s never right to do wrong

IV. ASSURANCE GIVES WAY TO DESPONDENCY (43:11-14)

A. We can have confidence because of God’s word
B. We can have confidence because God is in control
C. Leave the “whys” up to God