January 13
Gen 28-29 | PS 11 | Prov 3:11-12 | Matt 9:18-38
When we read Scripture, we need to not just appreciate the narrative, but we need to reflect and ask ourselves, "what would we do?", "whom do we resemble?" We all want to be the "better" character, but are we? At the crucifixion scene, we all want to be those sobbing at the foot of the cross, but do we more closely resemble the mockers in the religious group, those passing by who didn't even bother to notice, those who carried out the crucifixion (the Romans), who were simply following orders. Esau is a tragic character in that he was a man of the world who never gave God a thought. He was carnal. When hungry, he demanded food. Some might even see him as a real man's man. When he sought a wife, he never looked up and sought the counsel of God, even when he noticed his parents were not happy with his choices (his original two from Canaan), he doesn't bother to seek their advice, as we read in Genesis 28:6-9, that upon this realization, he visits his uncle Ishmael and marries one of his daughters. Realize the Satanic creed is "Do as thou whilst". These actions by Esau all reflect a man who simply did what he wanted at all times. Never seeking God’s will, he followed his own will. He had no heart for God. How many do we know, who deem themselves "good" live life basing every decision on what they themselves think. People sadly just don't realize that we are not that smart, not that logical, not that good, and our choices come with consequences, and are often poor choices.
Jacob has many faults but does obey his parents. As he ventures out and arrives in Bethel (the same place that the Lord showed Abraham all the land that He would give to him) the Lord meets with Jacob and promises many blessings which are all unconditional. We see that Jacob immediately sets up an altar as memorial, but then gives a conditional response to the Lord with a lot of "ifs" in Genesis 28:20-22, "Then Jacob made this vow: “If God will indeed be with me and protect me on this journey, and if he will provide me with food and clothing, and if I return safely to my father’s home, then the Lord will certainly be my God. And this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me.” Though Jacob is beginning his journey with God, you can tell he is still bargaining and scheming, as he still doesn't fully trust God.
Though Abraham made some mistakes, his faith was such that he placed his son on an altar and was ready to sacrifice him in obedience to God. Jacob was beginning to listen to God but was still hesitant to put his full trust in the Lord. Esau only considered himself, and never bothered to even consider God in his decisions. So, as we read, which character do we most resemble. Of course, we all want to be Abraham. But the overwhelming majority are like Esau. It doesn't mean that every decision they make is bad, or that they won't do nice things to their family or friends. It means that like Esau most people despise God. To despise does not mean to hate, but to take lightly or not consider. We need to reflect on these characters. The Lord says in Malachi 1:2-3, "Yet Jacob I have loved; But Esau I have hated" We must stop with this false notion of a " middle of the road" position. We are either God's friends or enemies, in a relationship or not in a relationship. As we continue through these accounts in Scripture may we all take an honest look at ourselves and others as we place ourselves into the narrative.
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: