What have I done?!?!?!

I can only imagine this was the sentiment at some point for many of the characters we read about in these chapters.

We learned at the end of Genesis 25 that Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of stew. As eldest son, Esau was entitled to the birthright and his father's blessing, which means he would have receive at least double a portion of inheritance from Isaac. Isaac was a VERY rich man. I wonder if Esau had this thought as soon as he finished his lentil soup and his stomach was full.

In a New Testament book (Hebrews), Esau is used as an example as we are instructed to watch for discontentment. We know from Hebrews that God considered Esau's act immoral and godless. The Message cleverly translates this instruction (Hebrews 12:16-17):

"Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God's blessing—but by then it was too late, tears or no tears."

In Genesis 25, this story is just beginning. In Chapter 27, we see Rebekah and Jacob scheme to deceive Isaac. Because of their deception, Isaac gives his blessing (and birthright) to Jacob. This is of course God's plan, but I have to be honest and say that I have a hard time with this. I just want to say to the whole lot of 'em, "That is not fair!" On the other hand, the reality is that Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of soup! I wonder if Esau had any idea of the seriousness of the impulsive conversation he had with Jacob over a bowl of stew.

Here are some things that God brings to my mind as I read this passage:

1. A seemingly minor act of impulse can potentially have significant, negative impact in our lives. I need to be very careful to consider consequences before acting on my impulses.
2. Rebekah's manipulative actions challenge me to check my motives in my relationships and dealings with other people. I think women especially have to be careful with the temptation to manipulate and make things happen.
3. God is gracious and merciful to the undeserving. God chose Jacob for His purposes not based on Jacob's previous behavior and poor choices. God promised Jacob His presence and blessings.
   

Next we read about Jacob making his way to live with and work for his uncle (Laban). Now, it is Jacob's turn to be deceived. Jacob makes a deal with Laban to work for seven years in exchange for marrying the younger daughter, Rachel. After seven years, Laban tricks Jacob and gives him Leah. This story gets me every time and is another "That's not fair!" story for me. Jacob gets his beloved Rachel after spending the bridal week with Leah, but he has to work another seven years for Uncle Laban.

Leah longed for Jacob to love her. She believed that because she was bearing Jacob's sons that he would love her. After three sons born of Leah, Jacob apparently still did not love her. Finally, after the fourth son was born, Leah chose to praise the Lord instead of waiting for Jacob's love. She stopped having children and I believe that she had finally found contentment in knowing God. What a lesson we can learn from Leah!