“Make sure that no one becomes immoral or unspiritual like Esau, who for a single meal sold his rights as the older son.” —Hebrews 12:16 (GNB)
Many years ago, I read the story of Esau and Jacob. It touched me deeply because there is so much to learn from it. The Bible records that one day, Jacob was cooking bean soup when Esau came in from hunting. Esau was starving and asked Jacob for some of the stew. Jacob replied that he would only share if Esau traded his rights as the firstborn son.
Esau casually responded, “All right! I am about to die; what good will my rights do me then?” Jacob insisted that he first make a vow, so Esau swore an oath and handed over his birthright. He took the food, ate, drank, and left, completely unaware of the gravity of his actions. For a mere morsel of food, he traded his birthright forever.
The Bible specifically notes that Esau despised his birthright. He had the opportunity to choose between his inheritance and his immediate appetite, but he chose poorly because his values were misplaced. Years later, when he wanted to receive his father’s blessing, he was turned away. He could not find a way to change what he had done, even though he sought the blessing with tears. His skewed values betrayed him, and in the long run, he was left entirely stranded.
This story applies to us today as well. When we value the wrong things, we rob ourselves of the bright future God has destined for us. Therefore, it is crucial that we set our priorities straight. Make up your mind to value the things that will help you grow and become the person God created you to be. Do not waste your time on trivial matters that add no real worth to your life. Instead, set those distractions aside and focus on what will truly advance your purpose.
Above all else, your greatest values should be God, His kingdom, and His righteousness. If these are precious to you, there is no telling how far you will go in life. As Scripture promises, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” —Matthew 6:33 (NKJV). Therefore, let God and His kingdom become your ultimate priority. Praise God!
Today’s Rhema
The wrong values in life will always rob us of God’s plan for our lives!
Prayer
Thank You, Heavenly Father, for blessing me with such wonderful truth today. I declare that from now on, my values are set on the right things. I refuse to be carried away or distracted by things that add no value to my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
