GENESIS 36 TIME TO SEPARATE In the unfolding events of the promise God gave to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, it was plain to see that there was not room for the two branches of Isaac's family to be together. Huge herds of cattle, large groups of herdsmen and the large families of Esau and Jacob made it necessary for them to be in different countries. Edom, with its mountains and desert, and riches in natural resources appealed to Esau and he went to the east. Jacob remained in the land promised to Abraham.
I learned there comes a time when it is necessary for separations to take place. Family ties are strong, but there are other things of higher importance to be considered. The will of God must never be ignored. To some it doesn't make that much difference. They believe what is personally advantageous or what appeals to me is reason enough to make a move. They may say that God opened the way because it was an easy move. Others may want to be where they feel most comfortable and will base a decision on the "comfort factor." But to me, of far greater importance is the promise of God, and even though there may be difficulties, and at times defeats, that is what decides my moves. The degree of comfort I have because of the place I am, does not give me the guidance I need. There will always come some discomfort farther along in any course we travel. Some start to move, and keep moving, because of feelings they have, rather than the facts of scripture and God's revealed will.
When the time comes to separate there doesn't need to be a lot of fanfare and harsh words spoken. It was plain to see that Jacob and Esau had to separate. The evidence wasn't obscure. The action just had to be taken. There is no doubt that a feeling of loss may be there when some make a move away from what they once held to be true. But agreement is necessary for the people of God to live together harmoniously. We can ask God's blessing on each other and to a certain degree, enjoy fellowship still. But in the steps of obedience and faith, there is a difference.
I learned that there are certain family ties that cannot and should not be broken. There are the ties of nature to which we have an on-going obligation. There does come a separation when the things that appeal to the soul are quite different. This may be caused by the unavoidable generation gaps that arise. There are different social standards each succeeding generation adapts to. The generation before will find it unacceptable to make the changes the following generations accept as normal.
There is also the possibility of separation along spiritual lines often based on opinions or interpretations of scripture. Opinions may change. Traditions that form around opinions are helpful if they are consistent with the teaching of the Word of God. If they are not, then those traditions should be abandoned. A sense of honor and dignity linked with the holiness of God is often a point of difference. One side may believe there should be physical evidence of respect and reverence. The other may think that is something that is known only to God and the physical appearance is only a form.
So, it will happen. Separations will come. The God of all grace who has promised honor to those who honor Him, is the only One who can discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. I know He knows mine, and to a degree I do too. I truly want to please Him and will not seek change for change's sake, but for the glory of God if and when that is made obvious.
I watch them go, and see them turn onto a different road. And I turn back to where I dwell with tear-dimmed eyes and a heavy load - Not because I fear for their destiny, that I believe is truly secure - But for the inevitable changes that will come, and what they will have to endure.
We walked together in harmony for awhile, held together by shared experiences. It seemed so good, so helpful to me - but I came to learn they thought it was only appearances That held us to the path our fathers taught us and led to pastures green. But then I came to understand there were differences of opinion to me unknown and unseen.
And the time came when for some unknown reason, one difficulty or another - The separation took place, the "herds" were too crowded, the space oppressive to a brother. An action was taken that has to be lived by, from here there is no turning back - As they travel away seeking for something more to fill the void they lack.
And I remain with diminishing "herds" and scant supply, In the place God promised me fellowship, now it is Him and I And a few others, who believe the same holds true now as when before This pasture land was newly-promised land full of God's richest store.
To many it seems a failing place where there is not much action or activity. But they are looking on now from without, the warmth and meaning they can't see. The dignity, the grace, the practices in this promised place we hold dear - Cannot be sensed or felt by those who separated and are no longer near.
The noise, the beating of the drums, the Afric sounds and tendencies - I can sense and hear from afar from where we meet in simplicity. Our praises come from hearts that edify our self and the others Who are there in the quiet place of prayer and we worship as sisters and brothers.
"Father, I am trying not to be unnecessarily judgmental in relation to those I know who have chosen to separate from us. I just want to maintain and enjoy this fellowship with Thee that is so warming to my soul and in its quiet way, effective in its lasting strength. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."