Family Matters
Read This Week: Genesis 27
After Isaac finished blessing him, and Jacob had scarcely left his father’s presence, his brother Esau came in from hunting. He too prepared some tasty food and brought it to his father. Then he said to him, “My father, please sit up and eat some of my game, so that you may give me your blessing.” His father Isaac asked him, “Who are you?” – Genesis 27:30-32 NIV
Genesis 27 centers on another intriguing story involving the brothers Jacob and Esau. We’ve already seen them embroiled in sibling rivalry, deception, and tampering with the blessings God has given their family. This section again delves into the complexities of their family dynamics, another instance of misdirection and deception, and God’s providence. It is a story that everyone reading it can relate to in some way. Family matters can be tricky, and even the healthiest of families are not immune to relational issues, tension, and sinful choices that can affect everyone.
This chapter demonstrates that family challenges take on greater importance because the stakes are higher and the bonds run deep, which can hurt more when things go south. It revolves around an event where Isaac, who is old and blind, intends to bless Esau before his death. However, Rebekah overhears the plan and devises a scheme to secure the blessing for Jacob, her favorite son. She dresses Jacob in Esau’s clothes and covers his hands and neck with goat skins to mimic Esau’s hairy appearance. Jacob receives the blessing intended for Esau when he presents himself to Isaac.
There are many issues here, and they raise ethical questions about deception and the consequences of favoritism within families. But in the middle of it all is the ever-present concept of divine providence, as the blessing received by Jacob aligns with God’s plan for him to be the chosen one through whom the covenant with Abraham will continue. Only God could enact His perfect and sovereign design amid human beings’ flawed and sinful activities. His plan transcends human scheming and poor choices, and He orchestrates events to fulfill His larger vision despite the imperfect actions of individuals and complicated family matters.
As He does in our lives and our world daily, the Lord extracts His glory and accomplishes His will even when it looks improbable. The situation in Isaac’s family is not good. His one son and wife deceive him; his other son misses the blessing intended for him at no fault of his own, putting all of them at odds and resulting in hostility, fear, and a desire for revenge. But all of it cannot overcome the redeeming power of God. Although it looks bleak throughout this section, it sets the stage for the unfolding of Jacob’s journey and the eventual reconciliation with Esau. It also expresses once again that the Lord is faithful even when we are not and that He will help us navigate the stickiest of situations if we trust Him and His word.
May we read this chapter and consider the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of grace. We can relate these to our own lives and reflect on how God has intervened and brought about positive outcomes in our family matters, relationships, and activities when the circumstances seemed irreconcilable and antagonistic. By delving into the intricacies of Jacob and Esau’s story, we gain valuable insights into the human condition and the overarching goodness and faithfulness of God.
Genesis 27 verse 41 is an important one shown to me from God.
41 Esau held a grudge against Jacob because of the blessing his father had given him. He said to himself, “The days of mourning for my father are near; then I will kill my brother Jacob.”
God impressed the following on me.
“When you do what is right in your heart my son, I will know it. What you yearn for, what your thoughts are on every matter and your morality. I cannot be fooled as you know. Help those that need help changing their heart and they will too be on the right path.
When we veer from an honest path we tend to make situations more complex than they ever need to be. If we are ever in doubt we can ALWAYS consult with God. But more importantly our hearts need to be true. Once we rid ourselves of any worldly influence we are able to access God’s guidance from deep within. And with God we never fail.
Genesis Chapter 27 Verse 8
So now, my son, do exactly as I command you.
Genesis Chapter 27 Verse 13
But his mother said to him, On me be your curse, my son; only obey my word and go, fetch them to me,
Genesis Chapter 27 Verse 43
So now, my son, do what I tell you; arise, flee to my brother Laban in Haran;
~Sin Destroys Families~
God Is Saying To Me:
Hear me my children! Listen to my instruction! Your lesson to learn from these verses and the story is that sin separates and destroys families.
First, before making any decision, talk to me about your concerns. Second, pray and seek my wisdom so that everyone understands my will in the situation. Third, have family discussions so that no one is deceived or left out of the conversation. Last, choose honesty over deceit and willingness to fulfill my plans for each, not destruction and selfishness, and most importantly, wait patiently for answers.
What This Means To Me:
Without seeking God’s wisdom and divine instructions, we can create chaos. Selfishness, abounds and backstabbing is prevalent. The family unit is important to seeking guidance and and being obedient to Gods instructions to flow righteously for God. We all must be on the same page to experience victory for God is a family unit. You do not desire for us to pit one parent against the other. Communication is key to living and maintaining a Godly marriage. If not, sin wins and destruction begins. Just know, when you put Him first, He wins every time!
Thank you God that you have great plans for all of us and do not want strife and conflict within the family unit. ❤️❤️❤️
This is what I got from God in Genesis 27. Do not be willing to abandon the question of right and wrong, and make your only concern be what works. Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Esau did not trust each other. The worse thing they did was not trust Me. They plotted against each other, and they plotted against Me. Jacob justified any lie or other sin he committed, in the pursuit of his birthright. Isaac blessed Jacob as the spiritual head of the family. You will always lose when you try to resist My will, even if you don’t like My will. There was 2 times that Esau showed he despised the birthright. One was when he sold Jacob his birthright for a bowl of stew. Isaac gave Esau a blessing, and Esau eventually ended up being a blessed man. The thought of revenge comforts those who feel wronged. Do not ever take vengeance against another. “Vengeance is Mine to take.” You are not the judge. Trust My word and My wisdom whenever you feel wronged. I am faithful even when you are not.
What this said to me is I know the difference between right and wrong, and I need to always do what is right. If I am close to God, I will. I will always lose if I go against God’s will. Whenever I feel wronged I need to trust God and His wisdom. Vengeance is not mine to take. I need to show forgiveness and trust God will take care of it.
Have you ever contemplated how, throughout history, every event seems to align with a greater purpose, as if guided by the hand of the Lord? It’s a thought that often fills me with wonder. The idea that each moment, from the past to the present, might be part of God’s meticulously crafted plan is truly awe-inspiring.
Think about this: God, in His infinite wisdom and power, orchestrates our lives and the world around us. This isn’t just a matter of global events; it’s deeply personal, involving each of us. Our journey isn’t solely based on our strengths and talents; rather, it’s intricately connected with our faith and trust in God’s plan and in the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Reflect on the biblical narratives, where ordinary individuals are chosen for extraordinary tasks. Isn’t it heartening? This notion brings me great comfort and courage. Our limitations do not define our potential when we are part of God’s plan.
Here are three key points to ponder:
1. Every chapter of history is a reflection of God’s unfolding plan.
2. God’s plan for us and our world is realized in countless ways, guided by His hand.
3. Regularly, it’s those who seem least likely who are called upon to play significant roles in fulfilling God’s purposes.
These insights not only deepen our faith but also encourage us to live with a sense of purpose and expectancy, watching how our own stories intertwine with God’s grand narrative.
This Week in the Life: Genesis 27
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