Unfortunate Legacy

Unfortunate Legacy

Genesis 36: ⁴⁰ And these were the names of the chiefs of Esau, according to their families and their places, by their names: Chief Timnah, Chief Alvah, Chief Jetheth, ⁴¹ Chief Aholibamah, Chief Elah, Chief Pinon, ⁴² Chief Kenaz, Chief Teman, Chief Mibzar, ⁴³ Chief Magdiel, and Chief Iram. These were the chiefs of Edom, according to their dwelling places in the land of their possession. Esau was the father of the Edomites.

 

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Many of Esau’s relatives became chiefs of Edom. These groups would spread throughout the region of Canaan.

 

My Observations:

• Esau was mentioned as the father of the Edomites, but not in a good way.
• Esau’s attitude towards GOD was the same as Canaan.
• Esau raised his relatives to do and act as they pleased because their might was in war.

 

During the listing of the Kings of Edom, the word “attacked” was used. The Edomites were similar to other groups who practiced fighting and building weapons. They organized themselves by having chiefs who would remain loyal to the Edomite ways.

 

Unfortunately, the way of the Edomite was to do the opposite of the pre-incarnate JESUS. Esau was generations after the Garden of Eden was destroyed. It seemed like the further away from the destruction of the garden, the more people fell into their own beliefs. GOD saw it all and allowed it with grace.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the chief of Edom?
• Have you ever wanted a human legacy that did not include GOD?
• If you desire a legacy, will you include GOD?

Split Up Repeated

Split Up Repeated

Genesis 36: ⁶ Then Esau took his wives, his sons, his daughters, and all the persons of his household, his cattle and all his animals, and all his goods which he had gained in the land of Canaan, and went to a country away from the presence of his brother Jacob. ⁷ For their possessions were too great for them to dwell together, and the land where they were strangers could not support them because of their livestock. ⁸ So Esau dwelt in Mount Seir. Esau is Edom.

 

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When GOD told Abraham to leave his father’s land and “go to a place where I will show you” Abraham obeyed. He look Lot, his nephew, with him. The land could not handle all of their wealth so they had to split up. Lot chose poorly and went to Sodom and Gomorrah. Esau and Jacob found themselves in a similar dilemma. Their weal was too great and Esau decided to move, similar to Lot.

 

My Observations:

• Esau was a powerful influential hunter.
• Esau forgave Jacob, but never turned to the GOD of Jacob.
• Esau was the father of the Edomites, which would cause problems for the Israelites later on.

 

Refusing to follow GOD would be Esau’s downfall. Human success was more appealing than surrendering to GOD, who provides true success. On the surface Esau seemed ordinary. He had multiple wives, similar to Jacob. He had sons and daughters similar to him as well. But the one thing that was missing was a loving relationship GOD.

 

Esau knew about Isaac’s relationship with the LORD and went the opposite direction. Esau was treated very well by Isaac. In fact, Isaac preferred Esau’s skills over Jacob’s deception. Esau simply chose to follow the ways of the Canaanites. He chose to create a group of people who would not follow GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Esau becoming Edom?
• Have you ever rebelled against GOD?
• Is there a part of you that needs to surrender to GOD so HE can guide you back to HIS fruit bearing life today?

 

Another Culture

Another Culture

Genesis 36: Now this is the genealogy of Esau, who is Edom. ² Esau took his wives from the daughters of Canaan: Adah the daughter of Elon the Hittite; Aholibamah the daughter of Anah, the daughter of Zibeon the Hivite; ³ and Basemath, Ishmael’s daughter, sister of Nebajoth. ⁴ Now Adah bore Eliphaz to Esau, and Basemath bore Reuel. ⁵ And Aholibamah bore Jeush, Jaalam, and Korah. These were the sons of Esau who were born to him in the land of Canaan.

 

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Before Jacob left to get married, Esau his twin brother, took wives from the local women. Isaac and Rebekah had settled in the land of Canaan. Esau married Adah a Hittite  and Aholibamah a Hivite. Isaac and Rebekah disapproved the marriage choices. Esau went to his uncle Ishmael’s people and married Mahalath, meaning beautifully adorned; mild; smooth, pleasing to the touch; rhythmic movements; sweet, harmonious sounds; dancers; singers; cithara; harp; lyre. She may also be referred to as Basemath, meaning Sweet-smelling or sweet smile.

 

My Observations:

• Esau chose to give up his birthright for food he could have fixed for himself.
• Esau chose to marry women who disregarded pre-incarnate JESUS.
• Esau tried to change his ways by seeking a woman outside of the Canaanite women.

 

GOD told the story of Jacob, then turns the story over to Esau. During Jacob’s 20 years he was away, Esau lived differently. Deeply hurt by Jacob’s deception. Esau vowed to kill Jacob. But instead, he forgave him. Esau seemed to focus his attention on growing warrior leaders. His hunting skills were impeccable. Isaac loved his skills.

 

But unfortunately, Esau chose to not listen to the pre-incarnate JESUS. He did things his way and lived a life that rebelled, just like the children of Canaan. Esau was highly influenced by the Canaan culture, which rebelled not too long after the ark landed on dry land. The disrespectful culture had gotten to Esau.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD go backwards and mention Esau to Moses?
• Do you believe that you are either for GOD or against HIM?
• What ways do you fight GOD and have you asked HIM to guide those ways?

Gathered to His People

Gathered to His People

Genesis 35: ²⁷ Then Jacob came to his father Isaac at Mamre, or Kirjath Arba (that is, Hebron), where Abraham and Isaac had dwelt. ²⁸ Now the days of Isaac were one hundred and eighty years. ²⁹ So Isaac breathed his last and died, and was gathered to his people, being old and full of days. And his sons Esau and Jacob buried him.

 

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After Simeon and Levi took revenge on the men of Shechem, GOD told Jacob to leave. He went to Bethel whiner his mother’s nurse died. Jacob mourned her death. He then continued to Ephrath, otherwise known as Bethlehem where Rachel, his beloved, died giving birth to Benjamin. Jacob mourned her death He then came home to see his father. Isaac breathed his last breath.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac died at one hundred eighty years of age.
• Jacob made it to Isaac to see his last breath.
• Isaac was gathered to his people or joined his ancestors.

 

This is the second mention of ancestors being someplace else other than alive on earth. The first mention was when Abraham died. Jacob and Esau buried Isaac’s body, but the words “gathered to his people” implies that they only buried Isaac’s corpse.

 

Isaac was no longer in the shell that was walking on this earth. He was back with his ancestors. But who are they? Isaac was a link in the lineage of CHRIST. Men and women who had conversations with the LORD were alive after death. Isaac was “full of his days”, meaning he reached a high number of years on this earth, but was alive after death.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Jacob being with his father to see him die?
• Do you believe in the afterlife?
• Do you know what will happen to you if you were to die today?

Here We Go Again

Here We Go Again

Genesis 35:1 Then God said to Jacob, “Arise, go up to Bethel and dwell there; and make an altar there to God, who appeared to you when you fled from the face of Esau your brother.”

 

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Simeon and Levi, Jacob’s sons, had just caused a mess. They killed all the men of Shechem and took their wives, children and possessions. Jacob feared for everyone’s life in his camp. With no plan, GOD appeared to him.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob was in a situation where he had to run for his life again.
• Jacob caused the mess he had between him and Esau, and found himself in the same situation caused by his sons.
• GOD had to tell Jacob to go back to the same place where he fled from Esau.

 

Fleeing, probably was not Jacob’s plan. He was told by GOD to return to Isaac’s and Rebekah’s land and may have thought he would settle there. Now he feared that his sons had upset very powerful groups from all over.

 

Bethel, also called Luz, was the place where GOD showed Jacob the supernatural ladder. Angels descended and ascended the ladder and Jacob promised he would offer the LORD ten percent of all he had. GOD sent Jacob back to this place and commanded him to build the altar he promised.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about HIS command to Jacob to leave and build an altar?
• Are you in a situation that seems very messed up?
• Do you have faith in GOD to handle all your difficult situations, even the one you are in right now?

Humble Reunion

Humble Reunion

Genesis 33: ⁴ But Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept. ⁵ And he lifted his eyes and saw the women and children, and said, “Who are these with you?”

So he said, “The children whom God has graciously given your servant.” ⁶ Then the maidservants came near, they and their children, and bowed down. ⁷ And Leah also came near with her children, and they bowed down. Afterward Joseph and Rachel came near, and they bowed down.

 

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Expecting to be killed, Jacob received a surprise. Esau ran to meet him, embraced him and kissed him. Bilhah cam forth with her children, then Zilpah with her children, then Leah with her children then Joseph and Rachel came. All of them bowed down.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob did not expect the warm greeting he received from Esau.
• Jacob was probably more than relieved that he did not get what he felt he deserved.
• Everyone in Jacob’s family surrendered to Esau in a very humbling way.

 

Both Esau and Jacob had grown up. Esau probably wanted to see Jacob for decades and asked questions about his family. Esau may have realized that his rage was caused by his own actions. Jacob the same.

 

Jacob came to Esau humbly. He referred to himself as “your servant” when speaking to Esau. He did not go into the situation blaming Esau for not respecting his birthright. Esau did not bring up any hurt memories of having his blessing stolen. The reunion was humbling all around. GOD was in the middle of the reunion.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about Esau’s reaction to Jacob?
• Have you ever received undeserved favor from GOD?
• Is there an area of your life that needs to be humbled so you can surrender it to GOD?

 

Trying to Control

Trying to Control

Genesis 32: ¹³ So he lodged there that same night, and took what came to his hand as a present for Esau his brother: ¹⁴ two hundred female goats and twenty male goats, two hundred ewes and twenty rams, ¹⁵ thirty milk camels with their colts, forty cows and ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten foals. ¹⁶ Then he delivered them to the hand of his servants, every drove by itself, and said to his servants, “Pass over before me, and put some distance between successive droves.” ¹⁷ And he commanded the first one, saying, “When Esau my brother meets you and asks you, saying, ‘To whom do you belong, and where are you going? Whose are these in front of you?’ ¹⁸ then you shall say, ‘They are your servant Jacob’s. It is a present sent to my lord Esau; and behold, he also is behind us.’ ” ¹⁹ So he commanded the second, the third, and all who followed the droves, saying, “In this manner you shall speak to Esau when you find him; ²⁰ and also say, ‘Behold, your servant Jacob is behind us.’ ” For he said, “I will appease him with the present that goes before me, and afterward I will see his face; perhaps he will accept me.” ²¹ So the present went on over before him, but he himself lodged that night in the camp.

 

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In a desperate effort to control the situation, Jacob figured he would try to control the situation by making Esau rich. He arranged to give Esau hundreds of animals with the ability to breed more and more.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob tried to prepare for Esau’s arrival by staging a welcome full of gifts.
• Jacob tried to reenter his old country on his own terms.
• Jacob tried to control the outcome by thinking of what Esau would say and do.

 

As if to say “If I were Esau….” Jacob planned for any eventuality. But his plan had a flaw. He did not ask GOD “How should I prepare myself to reenter the land?” His plan included bribery and self-protection, hoping to ease the blow of Esau’s anger. Jacob had not factored in GOD’s protection, so he tried to control the situation.

 

Jacob was used to planning his own protection. He had done this for years. He set his camp at the back of the gifts, thinking Esau would be greedy like Laban and possibly himself. He was looking at the situation through the world’s lenses. BUT GOD had the situation under control.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Jacob’s plan?
• Have you ever been faced with a situation and tried to control it without asking GOD?
• Will you place your current situation before GOD and allow the HOLY SPIRIT to guide you, knowing you “are” protected?

Beginning of the Change

Beginning of the Change

Genesis 28: ⁶ Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and sent him away to Padan Aram to take himself a wife from there, and that as he blessed him he gave him a charge, saying, “You shall not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan,” ⁷ and that Jacob had obeyed his father and his mother and had gone to Padan Aram. ⁸ Also Esau saw that the daughters of Canaan did not please his father Isaac. ⁹ So Esau went to Ishmael and took Mahalath the daughter of Ishmael, Abraham’s son, the sister of Nebajoth, to be his wife in addition to the wives he had.

 

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“Esau saw” says to me that he reflected on what he was doing. Esau had married two Hittite women, known as the daughters of Canaan. GOD flooded the earth and destroyed the Garden of Eden. Canaan, grandson of Noah, rebelled against GOD and had a curse placed on him by Noah. The rebellious nature was passed down for generations. “Esau saw.”

 

My Observations:

• Esau started to see that his actions were not pleasing to Isaac, Rebekah and probably GOD.
• Esau started to see that his actions caused Jacob to be blessed again and again.
• Esau tried to do things differently, so he went to Ishmael and married one of his daughters.

 

It seems like Esau finally “saw” what he was doing. He realized he was responsible for losing his birthright and the blessing from Isaac that would carry GOD’s promise. Instead of pursuing Jacob to kill him, he went to a relative, Ishmael, to marry someone different than the Hittite women.

 

Esau seemed to have a change of heart. He did not rebel this time. He married Mahalath, sister of the oldest son Nebajoth. She may have been born a little before him or a little after him, but she may have been about his age. His hatred for Jacob was not mentioned here. He was focused on changing.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Esau’s reflection of occurrences?
• Have you ever been mad at GOD, then reflected on your own actions?
• How often do you reflect on your actions, good or bad, and place them before the LORD?

Protection Program

Protection Program

Genesis 28: Then Isaac called Jacob and blessed him, and charged him, and said to him: “You shall not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan. ² Arise, go to Padan Aram, to the house of Bethuel your mother’s father; and take yourself a wife from there of the daughters of Laban your mother’s brother.

³ “May God Almighty bless you,

And make you fruitful and multiply you,

That you may be an assembly of peoples;

⁴ And give you the blessing of Abraham,

To you and your descendants with you,

That you may inherit the land

In which you are a stranger,

Which God gave to Abraham.”

⁵ So Isaac sent Jacob away, and he went to Padan Aram, to Laban the son of Bethuel the Syrian, the brother of Rebekah, the mother of Jacob and Esau.

 

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Isaac was aware that Jacob had lied and stolen Esau’s blessing. But it was too late. He did not want Jacob to marry a Hittite woman, known as the daughters of Canaan. He sent Jacob away.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac blessed Jacob again, asking GOD to make him fruitful and multiply him.
• Isaac blessed Jacob with the ability to gather people.
• Isaac blessed Jacob with the blessing of his father Abraham, which came directly from GOD.

 

Undeservingly, Jacob accepted the blessing and went to Rebekah’s brother Laban. GOD was clear that Laban was Rebakah’s relative. HE was also clear that Rebekah was the mother of Jacob and Esau.  This is the first time their names are mentioned together and Jacob’s name is mentioned first.

 

Jacob is being sent away, similar to a witness protection program of today. Isaac wanted him to marry someone from His father’s lineage. Rebekah wanted Jacob protected from Esau. GOD saw the entire plan and allowed Jacob to be protected.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think Isaac blessed Jacob, knowing he made a mistake?
• Have you ever been protected in the middle of your sins?
• Can you praise GOD for HIS protection because HE sees, knows and forgives your sins?

Escape Plan

Escape Plan

Genesis 27: ⁴¹ So Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing with which his father blessed him, and Esau said in his heart, “The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then I will kill my brother Jacob.”

 

⁴² And the words of Esau her older son were told to Rebekah. So she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said to him, “Surely your brother Esau comforts himself concerning you by intending to kill you. ⁴³ Now therefore, my son, obey my voice: arise, flee to my brother Laban in Haran. ⁴⁴ And stay with him a few days, until your brother’s fury turns away, ⁴⁵ until your brother’s anger turns away from you, and he forgets what you have done to him; then I will send and bring you from there. Why should I be bereaved also of you both in one day?”

 

⁴⁶ And Rebekah said to Isaac, “I am weary of my life because of the daughters of Heth; if Jacob takes a wife of the daughters of Heth, like these who are the daughters of the land, what good will my life be to me?”

 

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Angry at the situation he created, Esau decided to do something about it. He planned to kill his brother Jacob. His hatred was so deep, that he must have said what he would do out loud. Rebekah heard that Esau was planning to kill Jacob, so she put an escape plan into action.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob needed an escape plan because of his lie.
• Esau’s plan was yet another bad decision.
• Rebekah’s plan was to appeal to Isaac’s dislike of the Hittite women.

 

Yes, this situation was messy. BUT GOD knew it would be messy when HE told Rebekah, “the older shall serve the younger.” You would think that three wrongs would make a wrong, BUT GOD took three messed up plans to develop something good. Jacob’s lie, Esau’s hatred and Rebekah’s human plan would all work together for GOD’s good.

 

GOD sees our evil plan that we try to make innocent, and uses sufficient grace to cover us. HIS plan does not include anything evil. HE can see through the twisting and manipulation that humans do and still make HIS plan work. No eil plan can stop GOD. Jacob’s escape plan was put in place.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about what Esau said and Rebekah’s response?
• Have you ever gotten so angry at GOD that you wanted to hurt HIM by refusing to follow HIM?
• If you know there are parts of GOD’s word you refuse to follow, will you ask HIM to help you in those areas?

 

Blessing Confirmed

Blessing Confirmed

Genesis 27: ³⁶ And Esau said, “Is he not rightly named Jacob? For he has supplanted me these two times. He took away my birthright, and now look, he has taken away my blessing!” And he said, “Have you not reserved a blessing for me?”

 

³⁷ Then Isaac answered and said to Esau, “Indeed I have made him your master, and all his brethren I have given to him as servants; with grain and wine I have sustained him. What shall I do now for you, my son?”

 

³⁸ And Esau said to his father, “Have you only one blessing, my father? Bless me—me also, O my father!” And Esau lifted up his voice and wept.

 

³⁹ Then Isaac his father answered and said to him:

 

“Behold, your dwelling shall be of the fatness of the earth,
And of the dew of heaven from above.
⁴⁰ By your sword you shall live,
And you shall serve your brother;
And it shall come to pass, when you become restless,
That you shall break his yoke from your neck.”

 

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Esau tried to explain to Isaac that Jacob was a deceiver in hopes that the blessing could be receded. But Isaac held firm that he made Jacob his master. Esau was persistent and demanded a blessing. Isaac confirmed that Esau would serve Jacob but would one day leave.

 

My Observations:

• Esau looked for any way to get a blessing.
• Esau was fooled easily because he may not have cared about the birthright.
• Esau was made a servant, even though he did not desire it.

 

Jacob was a deceiver, but Esau could have said no to him when he gave his birthright away for a meal. Esau did not believe the blessing was supernatural, so he asked to be blessed. Isaac explained that the blessing he put in place would definitely happen.

 

Isaac knew Esau would be furious, so he prophesied that Esau would live by the sword. He also said that Esau would one day calm down enough to leave Jacob. The blessing was preserved.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about the conversation between Isaac and Esau?
• Have you ever messed up with GOD and thought HE would not forgive you?
• Have you asked GOD for restoration by surrendering what you are holding onto?

Only One Blessing

Only One Blessing

Genesis 27: ³⁰ Now it happened, as soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob, and Jacob had scarcely gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. ³¹ He also had made savory food, and brought it to his father, and said to his father, “Let my father arise and eat of his son’s game, that your soul may bless me.”

 

³² And his father Isaac said to him, “Who are you?”

 

So he said, “I am your son, your firstborn, Esau.”

 

³³ Then Isaac trembled exceedingly, and said, “Who? Where is the one who hunted game and brought it to me? I ate all of it before you came, and I have blessed him—and indeed he shall be blessed.”

 

³⁴ When Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with an exceedingly great and bitter cry, and said to his father, “Bless me—me also, O my father!”

 

³⁵ But he said, “Your brother came with deceit and has taken away your blessing.”

 

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After hunting, Esau brough Isaac the tasty food he made. Previously Esau had given Jacob his birthright for a meal he could have made for himself. Esau seemed to live a life that was inconsistent with the beliefs of GOD. His marriage to the two Hittite women greatly saddened Rebekah and Isaac. Now that the blessing was gone, Esau wept bitterly.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac’s blessing was far greater than material possession or power.
• Isaac’s blessing could only be given to one person because it carried GOD’s promise.
• Isaac’s blessing would be granted by GOD, even if given to a deceiver.

 

 

Esau asked Isaac to give him a blessing. He may not have believed what Isaac and Rebekah were talking about when they mentioned GOD to him. He may have been thinking that the blessing was about material possessions only.

 

Isaac blessed Jacob with a blessing from GOD. He bestowed on Jacob a supernatural blessing that would carry the lineage of JESUS in human form, the possessor of everything. Even Isaac did not know the power of his blessing. GOD would keep HIS promise despite the situation.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about this deception?
• Have you been waiting on a blessing from GOD but have not received it yet?
• Can you hold on without giving up, knowing GOD will bless you as HE promised?

 

Desire to Liar

 Desire to Liar

Genesis 27: ¹⁸ So he went to his father and said, “My father.”

 

And he said, “Here I am. Who are you, my son?”

 

¹⁹ Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn; I have done just as you told me; please arise, sit and eat of my game, that your soul may bless me.”

 

²⁰ But Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have found it so quickly, my son?”

 

And he said, “Because the Lord your God brought it to me.”

 

²¹ Isaac said to Jacob, “Please come near, that I may feel you, my son, whether you are really my son Esau or not.” ²² So Jacob went near to Isaac his father, and he felt him and said, “The voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” ²³ And he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau’s hands; so he blessed him.

 

²⁴ Then he said, “Are you really my son Esau?”

 

He said, “I am.”

 

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Jacob followed his mother’s instructions to the letter. He went into Isaac and said he was Esau. He then said he had the wild game that he was sent out to get.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob lied about being /Esau.
• Jacob Lied about catching wild game.
• Jacob really desired to get the blessing, so he lied to get it.

 

Jacob seemed like he would do anything to get what he wanted. But little did he know, GOD would eventually change his deceptive ways. It’s quite amazing how GOD chooses sinners like you and me.

 

GOD cannot stand sin. HE sees deception, lies and manipulation as a problem. BUT GOD also knows when HE can use someone who has been lying and cheating. GOD’s grace is amazing HE would bless this liar, despite his ways. One day his ways would have to change.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about what HE allowed Jacob to do?
• Have you ever lied to yourself or others?
• Is this the day you are changed to follow GOD wholeheartedly and without fear?

Scheme Released

Scheme Released

Genesis 27: ¹¹ And Jacob said to Rebekah his mother, “Look, Esau my brother is a hairy man, and I am a smooth-skinned man. ¹² Perhaps my father will feel me, and I shall seem to be a deceiver to him; and I shall bring a curse on myself and not a blessing.”

 

¹³ But his mother said to him, “Let your curse be on me, my son; only obey my voice, and go, get them for me.” ¹⁴ And he went and got them and brought them to his mother, and his mother made savory food, such as his father loved. ¹⁵ Then Rebekah took the choice clothes of her elder son Esau, which were with her in the house, and put them on Jacob her younger son. ¹⁶ And she put the skins of the kids of the goats on his hands and on the smooth part of his neck. ¹⁷ Then she gave the savory food and the bread, which she had prepared, into the hand of her son Jacob.

 

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Jacob presented flaws in Rebekah’s plan as if to say “How in the world will dad believe I am Esau? He’s covered with hair.” He was also afraid of getting caught and losing everything in the process. Rebekah told Jacob she would take the blame if Isaac were to find out.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob agreed with the deception, but was afraid of getting caught.
• Rebekah believed she was doing the right thing after hearing from GOD about who would be the chosen one.
• Esau and his wives still lived with his parents, so Rebekah heard and saw everything they did.

 

After thinking of everything, the scheme was put into place. Jacob brought the animals and Rebekah took the animals and made tasty food for Isaac. She then went into Esau’s closet and pulled out his stinking hunting clothes and gave them to Jacob.

 

She then took goat pelts and put them on Jacob’s hands and neck because Esau was very hairy. They thought of everything, but maybe they didn’t. Jacob was becoming better and better at getting his way through deceit. Wow! One son who could care less about his family inheritance, and the other, scheming to get what he could. Despite all of this, GOD would bless the family.

 

Challenge

• Why would GOD tell Moses about the scheme Rebekah and Jacob put together?
• Have you ever tried to over-spiritualize the actions of the people in the Bible?
• Can you see that GOD uses sinners, who mean things for evil, to do good for HIS purpose?

Seized Opportunity

 Seized Opportunity

Genesis 27: ⁵ Now Rebekah was listening when Isaac spoke to Esau his son. And Esau went to the field to hunt game and to bring it. ⁶ So Rebekah spoke to Jacob her son, saying, “Indeed I heard your father speak to Esau your brother, saying, ⁷ ‘Bring me game and make savory food for me, that I may eat it and bless you in the presence of the Lord before my death.’ ⁸ Now therefore, my son, obey my voice according to what I command you. ⁹ Go now to the flock and bring me from there two choice kids of the goats, and I will make savory food from them for your father, such as he loves. ¹⁰ Then you shall take it to your father, that he may eat it, and that he may bless you before his death.”

 

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Rebekah asked GOD “Why am I like this?” when Esau and Jacob wrestled in her womb. She remembered that GOD told her the future. “The older shall serve the younger.” Listening in on the conversation between Isaac and Esau, Rebekah knew this was the only chance for Jacob to be positioned to get the inheritance blessing.

 

My Observations:

• GOD predicted the truth about what would happen, and HE knew deception would be the reason it would happen.
• Rebekah may have felt justified in developing the deception, since she heard from GOD what would happen.
• Rebekah, like Sarah, took matters in her own hands.

 

Using deception is never a good idea. GOD states the facts of what happened. HE knew HE was going to bless the nation that would come through Jacob. HE also knew Rebekah and Jacob used deception to try to help HIM out, when HE needed no help.

 

This deception would shape Jacob in a not so good way. Later on, we will see how this deception played out. Rebekah saw this as the only chance to put Jacob in the position to get the blessing. This blessing would be an oath before GOD/.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about the conversation between Rebekah and Jacob?
• Have you ever tried to steer your future using deception?
• Are you brave enough to not use deception but lean on GOD for HIS guidance today?

A Chance to Reconcile

 

A Chance to Reconcile

Genesis 27: Now it came to pass, when Isaac was old and his eyes were so dim that he could not see, that he called Esau his older son and said to him, “My son.”

 

And he answered him, “Here I am.”

 

² Then he said, “Behold now, I am old. I do not know the day of my death. ³ Now therefore, please take your weapons, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me. ⁴ And make me savory food, such as I love, and bring it to me that I may eat, that my soul may bless you before I die.”

 

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Years and years after moving back to the place where Abraham bought, Isaac watched Esau grow up. He was getting old and could not see well. He called to Esau and gave him his request.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac could have blessed Esau right on the spot, but he gave him something to do.
• Isaac must have known that Esau gave away his birthright for a meal, so he gave him the opportunity to make it right.
• Isaac was willing to reinstate the blessing if Esau put in the effort.

 

Esau saddened Isaac and Rebekah by marrying the Hittite women. These women may have lived in the “care-less” culture, doing and saying as they please. They may not have followed what GOD wanted. Esau had great hunting skills, but may have left the cooking to everyone else.

 

Isaac requested that “he” make the food this time and was prepared to make everything right again by blessing him. This could be Esau’s chance to fix what he had broken.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD tells Moses about the conversation between Isaac and Esau?
• Have you ever thought you messed up with GOD and was given the opportunity to reconcile?
• Can you take a moment and ask GOD to reconcile with you, so HE can forgive and cleanse you to do HIS next assignment for you?

What is Valuable

What is Valuable

Genesis 25: ²⁹ Now Jacob cooked a stew; and Esau came in from the field, and he was weary. ³⁰ And Esau said to Jacob, “Please feed me with that same red stew, for I am weary.” Therefore his name was called Edom.

 

³¹ But Jacob said, “Sell me your birthright as of this day.”

 

³² And Esau said, “Look, I am about to die; so what is this birthright to me?”

 

³³ Then Jacob said,  “Swear to me as of this day.”

 

So he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. ³⁴ And Jacob gave Esau bread and stew of lentils; then he ate and drank, arose, and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright.

 

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After Abraham died, all was left to Isaac, the promised child. Isaac now had herds of cattle, sheep, goats and plenty of gold. Esau had access to the herds, but chose to hunt for his food.

GOD turns HIS explanation to one particular day in Esau’s life. This particular day, he came in from the field and asked Jacob for food.

 

My Observations:

• Esau did not seem to value his inheritance.
• Jacob had been planning to swindle Esau for quite some time.
• Esau did not care about what he gave away, as long as he was gratified at that moment.

 

For years, Jacob worked with cattle, slaughtering it and preparing food. Jacob was not lazy, rather he was cunning. Esau may have gone out on a hunting trip thinking he was going to catch his own food. He may have been able to cook food as well, but it took silence and lurking skills to catch animals. This day he caught nothing.

 

Esau may have been exhausted chasing his prey. He comes home and gets hit with a strange statement “Sell me your birthright.” Jacob would not give Esau any food unless he agreed to give him the birthright. He valued what he would get over his relationship with his brother.

Esau did not value herds and gold, so he sold it for a meal.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD mentioned this day to Moses?
• Have you ever valued something, only to find out later that it did not have any value?
• Will you place your value in walking with the LORD today so HE can renew you from weariness?

Beginning of the Rivalry

Beginning of the Rivalry

Genesis 25: ²⁴ So when her days were fulfilled for her to give birth, indeed there were twins in her womb. ²⁵ And the first came out red. He was like a hairy garment all over; so they called his name Esau. ²⁶ Afterward his brother came out, and his hand took hold of Esau’s heel; so his name was called Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when she bore them.

 

²⁷ So the boys grew. And Esau was a skillful hunter, a man of the field; but Jacob was a mild man, dwelling in tents. ²⁸ And Isaac loved Esau because he ate of his game, but Rebekah loved Jacob.

 

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During the birth of the twins, the first came out red and hairy. His name was Esau. But the second child grabbed his foot. Both parents noticed this and named him Jacob.

 

My Observations:

• Esau was wild in the womb, and Jacob was born with the desire to get what he wanted.
• Esau grew up as a hunter.
• Jacob may have figured out ways to not hunt, rather remain in the tent, cooking.

 

A rivalry began between Esau and Jacob before they were born. They wrestled in Rebekah’s womb, causing concern to her. She asked GOD what was going on and HE told her that two nations would be born from her and Esau would eventually serve Jacob.

 

This statement may have had an effect on her. She was told that Jacob would be the chosen one as a leader, so she catered to his every wish. Isaac may not have been aware of GOD’s words to Rebekah. He became enamored that Esau was a great hunter. Jacob would cook all the meals with the game Esau provided.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the details of the birth of the twins?
• Is there something you are wrestling with that has become your adversary?
• Will you give your struggle to GOD so you can gain peace today?

Restored After the Stew

Restored After the Stew

Ephesians 3: For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles, pray to God. ² Surely you have heard that God in his grace has given me this work to do for your good. ³ God revealed his secret plan and made it known to me. (I have written briefly about this, ⁴ and if you will read what I have written, you can learn about my understanding of the secret of Christ.) ⁵ In past times human beings were not told this secret, but God has revealed it now by the Spirit to his holy apostles and prophets. ⁶ The secret is that by means of the gospel the Gentiles have a part with the Jews in God's blessings; they are members of the same body and share in the promise that God made through Christ Jesus.

 

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Standing on the sideline, I waited to be picked to be on one of the teams. I was not athletically inclined, so my draft pick was extremely low. I was finally chosen, but did not get a chance to play that time, but when I did, I actually got on base!

 

• At one time I felt left out.
• When I was chosen I still felt like I did not belong.
• When I participated, I did not know I could actually contribute.

 

Paul goes to enormous lengths to explain the Gentiles have a part in GOD’s promise. For centuries, the Gentiles heard of the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and “Jacob”, (the swindler who tricked his brother Esau out of his birthright for some stew). While Esau was careless, he did not know he would be the father of a group of people who were left out of the Promise.

 

My Observations

• GOD sees my mistakes and forgive me anyway.
• GOD wants me to be part of HIS family, even though I do not deserve it.
• GOD wants me to actively participate as much as those who are gifted.

 

Some people who follow JESUS can be intense or even a bit intimidating. I mean, he may give more or she may serve more or someone else may not sin as much. BUT GOD doesn’t look at the score when it comes to HIS Promise. HE wants all of HIS children back, period.

 

HE chose a group to spread HIS Gospel, and they held it to themselves. HE then allowed HIS SON to fulfil the Gospel and they killed HIM. HE raised JESUS from the dead and gave HIS promise to the descendants of Jacob and Esau. He restored the Gentiles without having them need to follow all the rules. I am glad JESUS was raised from the dead for me.

 

Challenge

• Can you feel the passion of the writer over those who were at once left out?
• Have you ever felt left out or less than another person?
• Will you accept JESUS as your Savior and be a part of a family who HE care for and guides daily, in spite of flaws?