Genesis 25:29-34
Highlighting – “He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” (That is why he was also called Edom.) Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?” (v. 30-32)
What is a birthright? A birthright according to the Bible is “special privileges and advantages belonging to the first-born son among the Jews. He became the priest of the family” (Biblestudytools.com). Additionally, the first-born son assumed the leadership role in the family at the father’s passing or in his absence. He would receive a double portion of the inheritance in comparison to the other sons in the family.
Reading the story of Esau is eye opening. Sometimes we forfeit the blessings of God to fulfill the desires of the flesh. In this verse, we see that Esau was willing to give up his birthright for a bowl of stew, which he would eat for a few minutes, then be hungry again. Meanwhile, the benefits of the birthright would last him his entire life. Do not exchange what God has in store for you for something temporary. You may not see or physically be able to hold the promises of God right now, but they’re indeed there and you will obtain it at the proper time, whether that promise is something physical or spiritual (eternal life in Heaven). Do not make decisions at the height of emotion (emotions don’t make the best decision makers, because they vary often). This is why it’s so important that we seek God’s insight in any decision we’re looking to make. He takes pleasure in being involved in every detail of our lives, so invite Him in. Nothing compares to what God has planned for your life. What He has prepared for you exceeds what you think is best for you. Let Him guide you in His omniscience. Whenever I think I know better than God, I have to remind myself, He’s already been where I’m trying to go. He’s the author of time and my existence, why would I lean on my understanding over His?
Today, I encourage you to not give up the blessings of God for something that holds no weight in the long run. Every decision we make has a lasting impact on our lives.
Dear Father, thank You for revelation of Your word. Help me to remember to involve You in all of my decisions. Do not let me fall into temptation and forfeit the blessings You have for me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen!
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