Changing a Nation

Read Genesis 25-26
 
Gen 25:34b So Esau despised his birthright.
 
HAVE you ever been around a person who loves to emphasize the smallest trifle into a “life or death” situation? Esau is one of those. He thinks he will die in a few minutes if Jacob doesn’t give him his stew. He is hungry for immediate satisfaction. As a result, he gives up the most precious possession of a Hebrew first-born son—his birthright.
    Esau in a moment of rash passion for a “meal in a minute”, let’s go of his life’s material promise and treasure. He gives up what is due him. And the structure of Isaac’s family dramatically changes. This means that the entire foundation and structure of Israel to come is reshaped in God’s providence. Now Jacob will be the “next in line” in the role of the oldest son, not the second born. God will bless Jacob’s family, just as he told Rebekah, “the older will serve the younger.” (Genesis 25:23c).  
    For you, the lesson is to recognize your birthright: From 1 John 3:1: “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” As God has chosen Jacob, he has chosen you.
    As John reminded the church, When you call on Jesus as Lord, you are a child of God forever. But too often we resist. We are, as Esau was, concerned more about instant pleasure than we are about eternal life.
    Be careful what you desire. Your decisions will affect the foundation and structure of your life and your loved ones forever. What you say and do is not just about you. Your attitude and actions can hinder or help, can discourage or encourage those around you. Receive in faith your birthright in the kingdom of God. Treasure it above all earthly, momentary desires. Ask God: “See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalms 139:24)
 
Be Still: Rest for a moment as you consider God is your perfect Father, who loves you as his own.