Genesis 25:27-34
Would you forfeit a double-share of your family’s inheritance for a bowl of soup? Esau did. In one impulsive bargain, he gave up his right both to lead the family and to take a lion’s share of his father’s wealth. From where many believers sit in safe and well-stocked homes, Esau’s actions seem ridiculous. But falling into this brand of temptation is not unique. Every person is enticed to sacrifice future blessing in favor of feeding current desires.
Esau had his priorities out of order. The Bible says he “despised” his birthright, but that does not mean he hated the benefits of being born first. More likely, Esau didn’t give much thought to his position—it was doing him little good in his current life. He lived dangerously as a hunter. So how could he inherit anything if a wild animal killed him? Therefore, he placed a higher value on his immediate need for a full belly.
Esau’s shortsightedness isn’t all that different from some common modern scenarios. 1) When people trade family time for extra work hours, they lose the comfort of a loving household. 2) When men and women ignore God’s marital standard of faithfulness, the result is a damaged or destroyed partnership. 3) When someone refuses a relationship with the Lord in order to maintain a sense of self-will, he forfeits eternity with God.
What is your “bowl of stew?” At some point, you will face a choice between future gain and present pleasure. Do not act on impulse like Esau. Consider your decisions carefully and seek God’s will.
5 comments:
I definitely need to become disciplined at seeking God more for all decisions.
cas
Great perspective to start the New Year! My kids, who am I kidding, I am struggling to get out of the holiday mode and back to reality. My daughter would give up her birthright for one more day at home...
CAS, I'm right there with you about seeking God early and often for help with decisions 24/7.
The scripture in Proverbs about asking God for Wisdom came to mind this mind before I logged on. I pray that we would all seek Him for Wisdom in all things especially to further his kingdom.
Happy New Year!!!
Today is a tough day for my mom - they found a lesion on her breast and she is in for more tests - i am trying so very hard to trust God. to make matters more difficult, my Dad is on Disability due to shoulder replacement and her company is having huge layoffs jan 15th which could put them without medical or disability insurance. so, i am really trying to put my faith in God. when things like this come up, this is when my faith is truly tested. when things are rosy, it is easy to do the lip sevice. not that i mean to simply do lip service or go through the motions, but in these trials is when my faith is really tested. I have been on my knees praying for my mom and dad. and i am so very much trying to trust God's will.
Good post to start off the new year. It's definitely something that I personally need to consider. And it seems lately that God is trying to tell me just that with several signs. Coincidence?
Hey trd, I hear you buddy, and I will lift you up in prayer tonight. Happy New Year gentlemen! Let's commit to being more purposeful about being in the Word daily. I need it big time.
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