10 And it came to pass when Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother's brother, and the sheep of Laban his mother's brother, that Jacob went near, and rolled the stone from the mouth of the well, and watered the sheep of Laban his mother's brother. 11 And Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted up his voice and wept. 12 And Jacob told Rachel that he was a brother of her father, and that he was Rebecca's son; and she ran and told her father. 13 And it came to pass when Laban heard the tidings of Jacob his sister's son, that he ran to meet him, and embraced him, and kissed him, and brought him to his house; and he told Laban all these things. 14 And Laban said to him, Thou art indeed my bone and my flesh. And he abode with him a month's time.
15 And Laban said to Jacob, Because thou art my brother, shouldest thou serve me for nothing? tell me, what shall be thy wages? 16 And Laban had two daughters: the name of the elder was Leah, and the name of the younger, Rachel. 17 And the eyes of Leah were tender; but Rachel was of beautiful form and beautiful countenance. 18 And Jacob loved Rachel, and said, I will serve thee seven years for Rachel thy younger daughter.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 29:10-18
Commentary on Genesis 29:9-14
(Read Genesis 29:9-14)
See Rachel's humility and industry. Nobody needs to be ashamed of honest, useful labour, nor ought it to hinder any one's preferment. When Jacob understood that this was his kinswoman, he was very ready to serve her. Laban, though not the best humoured, bade him welcome, and was satisfied with the account Jacob gave of himself. While we avoid being foolishly ready to believe every thing which is told us, we must take heed of being uncharitably suspicious.
Commentary on Genesis 29:15-30
(Read Genesis 29:15-30)
During the month that Jacob spent as a guest, he was not idle. Wherever we are, it is good to employ ourselves in some useful business. Laban was desirous that Jacob should continue with him. Inferior relations must not be imposed upon; it is our duty to reward them. Jacob made known to Laban the affection he had for his daughter Rachel. And having no wordly goods with which to endow her, he promises seven years' service Love makes long and hard services short and easy; hence we read of the labour of love, 1 Corinthians 7:2.