Chapter XXXI.—Let us see by what means we may obtain the divine blessing. Let us cleave then to His blessing, and consider what are the means123 of possessing it. Let us think124 over the things which have taken place from the beginning. For what reason was our father Abraham blessed? was it not because he wrought righteousness and truth through faith?125 Isaac, with perfect confidence, as if knowing what was to happen,126 cheerfully yielded himself as a sacrifice.127 Jacob, through reason128 of his brother, went forth with humility from his own land, and came to Laban and served him; and there was given to him the sceptre of the twelve tribes of Israel. 123 Literally, “what are the ways of His blessing.” 124 Literally, “unroll.” 125 Comp. Jas. ii. 21. 126 Some translate, “knowing what was to come.” 127 Gen. xxii. 128 So Jacobson: Wotton reads, “fleeing from his brother.” Chapter XXXI.—Let us see by what means we may obtain the divine blessing. 42 Chapter XXXI.—Let us see by what means we may obtain the divine blessin…