Genesis 25-27 tells an interesting story of twins who were obviously not identical. Born on the same day, yet they were very different. Same parents, same gene pool, same birth setting. Esau was somewhat of a man's man -- rough, red, and an outdoorsman. Jacob was his mother's boy -- hung around the house with her. Also, Jacob had developed a cunning edge to himself whereas Esau was pretty much straightforward. It would seem that God's favor would rest on Esau. After all, he was the firstborn. One singular thing seems to set Jacob apart from Esau and therefore ahead of him. HE VALUED THE BIRTHRIGHT. HE VALUED THE BLESSING OF HIS FATHER. Despite serious character flaws, Jacob sought to inherit from his father and to fulfill his destiny. Esau seems to have merely lived for the moment. It seems that Esau, despite basic likeability, was the kind of guy who would ask "What's for dinner?" rather than "What's important?" Because of this, Jacob became one of the patriarchs of the Old Testament, whereas Esau recedes into the role of minor player. Here are the lessons:
1. Do you value and strive for advancement in Christ's Kingdom, or are you coasting?
2. Are you willing to compromise like Esau did merely for a bowl of temporary sustenance?
3. Does your heart thrill as you consider the blessing of God on your life?
One last note, Jacob had serious flaws, but the path ahead would straighten him out. When God lays hold of us, He promises not only to pour out blessing, but also to remake us in Christ's image. That is an adventure!
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