Genesis 30

The relationship between Laban and Jacob is very unusual. Jacob has a level of respect for Laban as his uncle based on the culture. At the same time, Jacob sees himself as better than his uncle because he believes that it is because of him that Laban has had his wealth increase. Is Jacob great, or is God great? This is the question that needs to be considered because Jacob seems to be taking credit for all the success, yet it is because of God's promises that started with Abraham that we see God blessing Jacob and by extension Laban.

Jacob's method for ensuring he got the best of the flocks is not fully known. What I do believe is in play is God's providence behind the scenes. However it worked out, we know that Laban had really been deceptive and, in a sense, ripped off Jacob. He worked for 7 years but did not receive the wife he expected, only to lead to working 7 more years. I believe that God is preparing Jacob to be a great nation and that involved a need for a level of wealth. It is also possible that this is some payback from Laban of what was owed due to his trickery and the 7 years of labor that did not get the due payment when he married Leah instead of Rachel.