We don't excuse Laban for his dishonesty, but we can learn from the custom he used as an excuse. Some things need to be done in order, and if we want the second, we must secure the first. The second may seem more appealing, but the heavenly rule stands: the elder must be married first. Many long for the joy and peace of believing, but they must first embrace the repentance that leads to it.

Everyone is drawn to happiness and would willingly work hard for it. Yet, in God's kingdom, true holiness must be cherished before true happiness can be attained. Heaven is not first but second, available only through perseverance. We must carry the cross before we can wear the crown. We must follow Christ in His humility if we hope to rest with Him in glory.

Reflect on your heart. Are you hoping to bypass God's way? Do you dream of reward without effort, honor without toil? Abandon that idle thought. Embrace less appealing things for the joy of Jesus' love, which will reward you completely. With this mindset, struggles turn to sweetness, and difficult tasks become simple.

Like Jacob, your years of service will seem like just days because of your love for Jesus. When the wedding feast finally arrives, all your past struggles will feel insignificant. One moment with Jesus will outweigh years of pain and effort. Jesus, to win You so fair, I'll gladly bear the cross. Since it's heaven's rule, first I'll embrace one to gain the other.