March 17, 2021 | Genesis 25

Read Genesis 25

Scripture- Genesis 25:29-34 Once when Jacob was cooking some stew,Esau came in from the open country, famished.30 He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” (That is why he was also called Edom.)31 Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.”32 “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?”33 But Jacob said, “Swear to me first.” So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob.34 Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left.So Esau despised his birthright.

Observation- Both Jacob and Esau had the same problem. Both of them disregarded the promise of God. As the first born, Esau was lined up to get the birthright. That meant he would not only receive the majority of the inheritance, but because he was also from Abraham’s line he would also get the promise of the future Savior coming through him. He gave that up for a bowl of soup. Jacob was told that the “older would serve the younger.” Instead of trusting that promise, Jacob took matters into his own hand. 

Application- Just like Esau and Jacob, God has made me promises as well. Just like them, I can disregard God’s promises. When temptation and the human flesh has a desire, I can easily disregard God’s promises to satisfy my desire right now. Like Jacob, I can take matters into my own hands instead of patiently waiting for God’s timing. Thankfully, God’s faithfulness to me doesn’t depend on my faithfulness to him. He remains faithful as he forgives me through Jesus. He remains faithful as he continues to guide me and lead me through this life. Because he is so faithful, I want to trust his promises today. 

Prayer- Thank you, Father, for lovingly leading me and guiding me. Thank you for your promises that you have made. Let me know them, cling to them, and trust them today knowing that your timing is best. Amen.