God’s Promises Are Not Transactional

Scripture Focus: Genesis 28:20 to 22; Romans 11:35 to 36
After God appeared to Jacob with powerful promises, land, protection, presence, and a future,
Jacob responded by saying, “If God will be with me… and give me bread to eat, and raiment to
put on… then shall the Lord be my God… and of all that Thou shalt give me I will surely give the
tenth unto Thee.” (Genesis 28:20 to 22). This was a transactional response. God gave a
covenant of grace, but Jacob responded with conditions. His focus was on food, clothing, safety,
and what he would give in return.
God had already decided to bless Jacob. His plan was not dependent on Jacob’s tithe or deal.
The promises were rooted in God’s faithfulness, not Jacob’s bargaining. This is a warning to
believers today: do not fall into a transactional mindset with God. He blesses because He is
good, not because we manipulate Him with vows. Our giving, our service, and our devotion
should flow from love and trust, not from deals. God is not a merchant; He is a Father. Rest in
His grace, and serve Him freely.
Prayer:
Lord, help me serve You out of love, not deals. Let me trust Your heart beyond conditions.
Amen.
Further Reading: Romans 11:35 to 36; Isaiah 55:1; Matthew 6:31 to 33.