Genesis 29  Jacob met and fell in love with Rachel.. so much so that he worked 7 years for Laban so that he could marry her.  Yet, when it came time for the wedding, Laban deceived Jacob.. by putting Leah in Rachel's place.  Jacob did not even know until the next morning.  

Leah was the oldest daughter and Rachel was the beautiful one.  Leah was unloved compared to Rachel, but she also was able to produce sons for Jacob.  Reuben, "because the Lord has seen my affliction" ;  Simeon, " Because the Lord has heard that I am unloved"; Levi.. "Now this time my husband will become attached to me"; and then Judah.. "This time I will praise the Lord".   

Although Leah was not favored by Jacob, she was favored by the Lord. Grace.. poured out on an unloved wife... brought her to a place of favor as she was seen, heard, and comforted by the God who loved her.  

Father in heaven, sometimes life seems so unfair. But, even when things do not go as we want.. You have a plan and You are good.  May we learn from Leah.. to persevere.. to know that no matter what.. You see us, You hear us.. and Your plan for us is good.  May we join with Leah in praise to our God who loves us more than we can imagine!  If only Leah could have seen back then.. Jesus, the Lion of Judah!  How much more would she have rejoiced! Thank You for the kindness that You show even to the least of us.  Amen!