Facing the Temptations to Shrug and Scheme

Jacob and Esau. Two brothers who demonstrate two responses to the promises of God. Esau despised his birthright. He traded eternity for a bowl of stew. He lived for what he could taste, touch, and feel in the moment. Spiritual things felt distant. Immediate comfort felt urgent. Hendrick ter Brugghen’s Esau Selling His Birthright (c. … Continue reading Facing the Temptations to Shrug and Scheme

Grasping God’s Promise in the Wrong Way

Genesis 27 Genesis 27 is uncomfortable, because it shows a covenant family that knows God’s promises—and still refuses to trust God’s ways. Every major character in this chapter is spiritually compromised. Isaac is driven by appetite and favoritism. Rebekah is ruled by fear. Jacob is willing to deceive. Esau is reckless and godless. Yet over … Continue reading Grasping God’s Promise in the Wrong Way