And it came to pass, whenever the stronger livestock conceived, that Jacob placed the rods before the eyes of the livestock in the gutters, that they might conceive among the rods... Thus the man became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks, female and male servants, and camels and donkeys.
Genesis 30:41 & 43

Jacob made a deal with his crafty father-in-law, Laban. Jacob could have all the livestock that was spotted. The solid colored animals would remain his uncle Laban's. The two agreed.

Jacob concocted a plan to increase the number of spotted animals by having them mate while looking at a stand of carved rods he prepared. The result was marked growth of the number of the spotted animals.

We all know that the carved rods had nothing to do with the increased number of spotted animals born. There is nothing scientific whatsoever about such a plan. How then do we explain the growth of the spotted animals? Was it chance? No. There is no such thing.

The only explanation is that God providentially blessed Jacob by increasing the size of his flocks.

Is there any lesson to be learned? There sure is. How often do I think something I have done is responsible for the blessing in my life, when it is simply God. Though I need to be responsible, I cannot take credit for my salvation, my sanctification or even the temporal blessings I enjoy. Giving all glory to God, I must be mindful to be more thankful than prideful.