Genesis 27

Jacob lives up to his name here, with some help from his mother. Does Rebekah think that she’s helping God out? Sarah tried that too, and it led to just as bad a mess as this does. We should probably always be careful when we think that God’s plans are going to fail without our help. More on that in a minute…

Yes, Jacob is a deceiver, and we might wonder at that. Why would God choose him? Shouldn’t he be better if God chose him?!?!? But remember, when God chooses us in Christ, He doesn’t take away our sin nature completely. He gives us the Holy Spirit to help us, but we still need to do what is right.

Romans 8:14 (WEB) “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are children of God.”

Esau should be heartbroken and angry. He willingly gave up his birthright, but, from his perspective, he had his blessing taken by his brother and mother. Couldn’t Isaac have changed it because it came about by deceit? Perhaps he understood that to do so would subvert God’s plan – a plan that he was apparently going to go against! We have limited information here. What’s amazing in all of this is that God plans are not thwarted in any way. He is sovereign!

There is also a warning here to be careful what we model. Isaac followed in his father’s footsteps when he lied about his wife, and presented a horrible example to his children. Regardless of whether we have physical or spiritual children, we would do well to remember that people are paying attention to our example. We have a responsibility to model God in all that we do.

Thought for the day: Is there any part of your life that you need to clean up to show a good example to those around you?

Matthew 5:16 (WEB) “Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”