1.  Jacob’s emotional “default” setting when faced with conflict was to deceive and scheme, trusting in himself.  Fear triggered his default setting.

2.  Once again we see that we are faced with a choice to live in faith or live in fear.  Faith is freeing and allows us to live openly, honestly, transparently and courageously.  Fear, on the other hand, is crippling.  Because we fear being taken advantage of we scheme, manipulate, and take advantage of others.

3.  Jacob explained to Rachel and Leah about the need to leave.  He recounted God’s instruction to him, and God’s care for them in the midst of the difficulties cause by Laban’s greed.  It is part of a man’s God-given leadership in the home to consult with his wife about issues affecting the family and to explain family issues and decisions from God’s perspective (the perspective of the Word of God).  For this reason a man must be well-versed in the Word of God and be ready to share with his family how God has cared for them in the past and how He will lead them in the future.

4.  The Mizpah covenant/truce/treaty (Genesis 31:43-55) was a recognition of Jacob’s and Laban’s mutual distrust not of their mutual friendship.