Genesis 27

Scripture:  Genesis 27:30-46

Observation:  Esau returns from his hunting trip and goes to see his father with a plate of food, ready to receive his blessing.  To the shock of both men, they realize Jacob has already received the blessing from Isaac.  Esau is first grieved that there is no blessing for him, then angry and ready for revenge.  His one consolation is that his father will soon die, at which time Esau intends to kill Jacob.  Rebekah hears of Esau's plans and knows she must take immediate action.  She tells Jacob to leave, go to her brother's house in Haran, and stay there until she calls for him.  Of course she can't tell Isaac what she has done, so instead she laments to her husband that Esau has married Hittite women and she can't stand the thought of Jacob doing the same.

Application:  Rebekah, with all her good intentions, brought a lot of trouble to her family.  Her husband became angry at his son for his deception, her eldest son was eager to kill his younger brother, and she had to send her beloved Jacob away.  All because she thought she needed to control the circumstances in her family.  As a mother, I have the power to bring unity or division within my own family.  My words and actions need to be measured with a scriptural stick, to ensure I don't do damage when I'm trying to do good.

Prayer:  Father, the best intentions are worthless if they don't abide by Your Word.  Your will must be paramount in my life if I want to see my children follow in Your ways.  Help me to set the right example for them, and not get ahead of You and Your will.  My children are watching me; help me to be their mother and also their mentor, to teach them to glorify You in all they do.  In Christ Jesus I pray, Amen.