I Want It . . . Later!

Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his birthright as the firstborn son for a single meal.

Hebrews 12:16

REMEMBER THE STORY OF Jacob and his twin brother, Esau? Esau wanted some of Jacob’s stew so badly that he didn’t even hesitate when Jacob asked him to trade his birthright for it. In essence, Esau’s reply to his brother was, “What good is my birthright right at this moment? I’m more interested in satisfying my immediate hunger than I am in whatever promise might be in store down the road.” So without a second thought, even though he knew what the birthright actually entailed, he made the deal. A spiritual blessing, a double portion of the inheritance, leadership of the family . . . traded for a bowl of stew. Sounds ludicrous, doesn’t it?

Unfortunately, the story of Esau is being relived by many people, including us sometimes. When we focus our time, energy, and resources on achieving and acquiring what feels good now, we can miss opportunities to participate in the promises and purposes of God. Think about that: We can miss opportunities to join God’s work in the world.

Reread Hebrews 12:16 with the following definitions in mind: immoral (giving priority to selfish desires) and irreverent (treating God in a way that is not respectful). Now ask yourself this question: Is there an area in your life where you’re trading away God’s blessings for something else that seems more important right now?

BOTTOM LINE

A life lived for Christ is a life focused on Kingdom significance, and a life of Kingdom significance will always far outweigh a life of indulgence.

Moment of Strength: Colossians 1:9-12