Genesis 28:20

Jacob vowed a vow. This is the first recorded vow. By taking a vow a man binds himself to do certain things in a specified way. Since the fulfillment of Jacob’s vow depended upon God’s power, and because it was made to God, it took the form of a prayer. It was not made in a mercenary spirit, but in gratitude, humility, and confidence.

If God. This expression in no way implies doubt in Jacob’s mind as to whether God would fulfill His promises, or that Jacob was proposing terms to God. He took the Lord at His word. Since He had graciously promised to be with him and to bless him, he on his part would be faithful to God (see PP 187, 188). In profound appreciation, Jacob’s thoughts turned to tangible ways in which his devotion might be expressed.

Bread to eat. Jacob, who had not hesitated to use the most despicable means in an endeavor to secure for himself the larger share of the inheritance, now humbly asked nothing more than protection, food, clothing, and a peaceful return to his father’s house. He would be happy for the bare necessities of life. Gone was his desire for wealth, luxury, honor, and power. What a lesson in humility, and how thoroughly Jacob had learned it!