Suggested Bible Reading: Genesis 25-26
Devotional Thought:
Abraham was sure to give Isaac all that He had as a testimony of what God was doing in His dispensation. Abraham carefully protected Isaac from any other future claims against his estate. It was very important for Abraham to settle this for the family before he died. After settling the details of Abraham’s family, we find a new generation beginning in the promise of God, and His plan for Israel. There are four things we learn about Isaac from this passage. First, Isaac’s burden before the Lord. (vs. 21-23) Knowing the promises of the Lord, it bothered Issac that his wife was barren for 20 years. God hears the prayer of Isaac and Rebekah gives birth to twins. The word “struggled” means oppressing. There is certainly a battle that takes place both in our flesh and in the world regarding a person doing the will of God. Satan seeks to thwart the plan of God every chance he can get. We must recognize that our flesh can be oppressing as we become fruitful for the Lord. Secondly, Isaac’s boys from the Lord. (vs. 24-27) Esau means hairy and we find that he desired excitement, entertainment, and expertise. He clearly pictures the battle that we have with our flesh even today. Jacob certainly had his battles with selfishness and God had to take him to the woodshed to help grow him up to be used of the Lord. Thirdly, Isaac’s blunder before the Lord. (vs. 28) Isaac loved Esau for very selfish reasons, as did Rebekah love Jacob. Selfishness always produces envy, strife, and division. (1 Cor 3) When we get selfish in this life, we will always hinder the work of God. Fourthly, Isaac’s battle with his boys. (vs. 29-34) Jacob wanted what was not his to have. Whenever we become discontent with the rank, role, or responsibility given to us by God, we are headed for disaster. Esau wasted the responsibility and opportunity that was his. We will do the same thing when we are no longer grateful for the privilege to serve, but rather begin to waste the privilege for selfish indulgence. Esau knew that he was losing his birthright and all the blessings that were tied with it. The problem was that they held a spiritual nature and significance and Esau was just not interested. How sad when people are more interested in the temporal, immediate satisfaction rather than the long term plan of God. It is important to note, that just because God predicted what was going to happen with these two boys, He never had to interfere with their wills, or micro manage any of their decisions. God knows what is going to happen, and has master minded an unchanging plan that will culminate in the coming of Christ right on time.
Prayer Requests:
• Lord, please help me to recognize the power of my flesh and seek to mortify it every day.
• Lord, thank you for making a wonderful plan and for the joy and comfort that comes from knowing you are working it all together for my good.
• Lord, please help me to live with eternity in view and not live temporally minded. Help me see the big picture of your marvelous beauty and grace.