Jacob is a biblical hero who depicts the power and grace of God to change and renew. He is most commonly known in the Bible for his cunning and deceitful ways, especially towards his twin brother Esau. However, after losing to God in a wrestling match, Jacob received God’s blessings and a new name – Israel. Jacob is first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 25. When Jacob’s mother, Rebekah, was pregnant with him and his fraternal twin Esau, she inquired of God as to why her two babies were fighting in her womb (Genesis 25:22). God replied that the enmity between the two brothers was a foreshadowing for the two nations that would arise from them. Jacob would be the forefather of Israel (Genesis 32:28, Genesis 35:10-13) and Esau of Edom (Genesis 36). Additionally, Esau, the elder twin, would become the servant of Jacob, the younger (Genesis 25:23). Fittingly, Jacob’s name is derived…
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Heal Past Hurts
Dear God, I come to you with a heavy heart. I’ve been through so much pain and hurt in the past. These memories come back and haunt me. They frighten me and make me scared of the future. God, I surrender all of my heart to you. Fill my heart with your love and heal all these painful memories and hurts from the past. Through the blood of Jesus, I ask that you cleanse me of my sins and pains. Please cast your light deep down onto the darkness in my heart. Uncover all the hurts that are deeply hidden and heal my inner most being, through Jesus Christ, my Lord and personal Savior. Thank you, God, for your love and faithfulness. Amen
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Artisan Bread
Hi guys! I am so excited about what I made in my cast iron Dutch oven Sunday. I want to share it with you. This recipe is very minimal but produces a beautiful loaf. I have tried for years to make bread but could never achieve that exquisite crackle sound when the bread is pressed or broken open. A Dutch oven is the way to go. It creates a beautiful crust and wonderful taste. You will need a cast iron Dutch oven (pot with lid), mixing bowl and spoon, measuring cups, bowl for dough to rise in, oven safe paper to keep the loaf from sticking and easy transportation, a scraper, and a cloth to cover the dough to help retain the warmth to rise. Preheat oven to 450’ with the Dutch oven inside. Never preheat the oven without the Dutch oven inside, as it could cause the Dutch oven…
