Return to the Responsibility You Have Delayed
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother. Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments: And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.
Genesis 35:1-3 KJV
Some responsibilities remain unfinished because we keep finding a more convenient time in the future. A necessary change is acknowledged, discussed, and then postponed until the next busy season has passed.
Jacob's response at Bethel includes practical preparation. The household must put away what does not belong. The account reminds us that obedience often requires an identifiable action rather than another statement about what we hope to do someday.
Consider the clear responsibility you have delayed. It may involve correcting a dishonest practice, returning to faithful worship, or removing something that has been allowed to govern the home. Begin with what Scripture actually requires.
Do not turn a personal preference into a command for your spouse. Seek agreement and sound counsel in matters of wisdom. Where sin is clear, take responsibility for your own obedience without waiting for ideal circumstances. The Lord's patience should not become a reason for continued delay. A household can begin moving in a better direction when one necessary action finally receives the attention that repeated intentions have not supplied.
Keep the passage in context
God directs Jacob to return to Bethel, and Jacob calls his household to put away strange gods and prepare. The response includes concrete action rather than a vague expression of intention.
Read further: Genesis 35 in the King James Bible.