2008-05-26 - Isaac: Hmm, Is That You, My Son?

Through faith Isaac blessed his sons. (Genesis 27:1-28:5, Hebrews 11:20)

Isaac took his role as a father seriously, and wanted to make sure his sons received their due blessings. Isaac had no reason to suspect his wife or child as deceitful. His main objective was to give his oldest son his due blessing, but his idea backfired. Isaac fell for his wife's and son's trap, and outwitted his eldest's blessing, by giving it to the youngest son.

Isaac asked his oldest, Esau, to make him a stew, a dish he loved. Esau gladly did what he was told, and went to prepare the meal for his father. Isaac wasn't aware that his wife was eavesdropping. Rebekah took advantage of Isaac's failing eyesight, and told Jacob how to receive his older brother's blessing. Jacob even swore to Isaac that he was Esau. Jacob (posing as Esau) presented the stew to Isaac, and in turn the elder blessed his son - informing him that people would bow to him, including his brother, and that his enemies would be cursed and his allies blessed.

When Isaac and Esau found out Jacob had dressed up and acted like Esau to get the blessing, Esau burst into tears, and Isaac trembled violently. Esau didn't get the blessing he longed for, but didn't go away empty-handed. Isaac told Esau he'd live by the sword and serve his brother.

It probably never entered Isaac's mind that Rebekah would put son against son, brother against brother. His wife wouldn't stoop so low at her eldest son's expense would she? Not to mention embarrassing him. Rebekah and Jacob crossed the line. The family unit wasn't working; vengeance was at full steam. Rebekah got what she wanted, but at the cost of losing her son and their family.

For Isaac, speaking a blessing was an outward sign of Isaac's belief that God would bring the blessing to pass. They weren't hollow words. Isaac was looking out for his sons' future; he had faith that God would bless his offspring. We too can place our faith in the Lord. For Jesus said, "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him." (Mark 11:22-23 NIV)

Lord, You can have rivers flow in the desert, and create a path in the thick wilderness. Help me to remember that if there is strain and discomfort in life, it will not last forever. You are more than capable of providing an escape route for us. May I place my faith in Your hands. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

-Lisa

lisa@cfdevotionals.org

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