Tuesday (6/23/20)

Read Genesis 27-28

THE BLESSING
The blessing that they were seeking is one that would transfer leadership of the clan to the next generation (Zondervan’s Bible Commentary). The administrator (usually the firstborn) would preside over family events as well as determine the timing and division of the inheritance. Though Esau had earlier (chapter 25) traded away his birthright (for a bowl of stew), he could retain control of the estate through this blessing. The blessing would also be a proclamation of destiny for the sons. It was believed to be binding once the words were spoken – hence Isaac could not take them back even when it was revealed that he had been tricked.

What we believe always gets worked out in what we do. Belief precedes behavior. We can say all day long that we believe and trust in God, but if we manipulate, control, lay down in self pity we reveal much more about where our trust lays.

Each of the players in this story display faith and disbelief along the way. We are no different than they are. Let’s look at each character and see what their actions reveal to us.

On a piece of paper write out when each of these people demonstrated faith and when they demonstrated disbelief:

  • Jacob
  • Esau
  • Rebekah
  • Isaac

Reflect on your actions over the past 24 hours and write down when you demonstrated faith and/or disbelief.

Jesus asks a man in the gospels if he believes that He (Jesus) can heal his son. The man replies, “I do believe, help me with my unbelief.” Spend some time asking the Holy Spirit to show you areas of disbelief, areas where you are trying to control outcomes, as well as areas where you are growing in trust.