Lessons from the Twin Brothers Jacob and Esau – Part 2
Lessons from the Twin Brothers Jacob and Esau – Part 2
This is a continuation of Julie McElroy’s guest post. The first part is found here. Don’t forget to check out Julie’s information below.
Sometimes it is not so easy to know what God’s plan is for you. God’s signs are not usually bright, neon, flashing lights, but often times more subtle. As we live here in the fallen world, we our tempted quite often, and these temptations confuse us
into giving in. They are powerful and can override our values and morals in times of vulnerability.
So, you go with your gut – the little voice that is telling you the right thing to do. That may just be your “subtle” hint. On the flip side, don’t take advantage of vulnerable, or even naïve people. Don’t try to trick people to get your way, like Jacob did.
Live the life He would want you to. Be kind to others and love. It always goes back to that. Love your family, parents, children, friends, neighbors, and even your enemies.
We live in a society where people want everything NOW, and many people take advantage of that desire, like Jacob. Think of the marketing and ads that are out there!
“Quick, quick, get it now!”
This doesn’t mean to be lazy and indecisive all the time. Sometimes you have to make quick decisions and take advantage of opportunities when they are the right ones. Life is short. Don’t live a life in fear either or question EVERYTHING. We are here to enjoy life and God will guide you.
Simple: Do the right thing and love one another.
I think the bottom line is to not be blinded by greed or selfishness or instant, unhealthy desires. Jacob knew his brother was hungry, so he took advantage of him because he was greedy and selfish! He did not love his brother in the way we are supposed to love. If he did, he would not have tricked him TWICE!
Esau should have been strong and not given in to Jacob’s manipulation. He should stand on his moral ground and resist temptations. Esau gave into temptation because he was weak. But, we all have weak moments – every single one of us. We are human. We are not Jesus. The devil will try and prey on our weakness. We have to stand strong and be patient. Patience is good. But, love is better. Love IS patient and kind and is not self-seeking (1 Cor 13:4-7).
While there are multiple lessons in the story of these twins, the bigger lesson is we should love our brothers and sisters as God loves us. We should do the right thing. Even when it is hard to do. No, especially when it is hard to do.
Julie McElroy
Freelance Writer / Blogger
Check out my blog: Inspired to Write and my NEW blog Love Musings
photo credit: turoczy
October 8, 2025 @ 6:49 am
A very fair and reasonable interpretation of Esau’s relinguishing his birthright.
The sovereign right of God was in play before the birth of Esau and Jacob
April 14, 2024 @ 11:27 am
Perhaps Esau should have resisted the temptation of the food for his birthright. The translations record Esau saying he was dying / at the point of death. “What good is my birthright if I am dead.” This dilemma corners Esau.
But the second theft was deceit and theft by Rebecca and Jacob. A great and elaborate deception to steal Esau’s Blessing from his dying father. Esau’s heart is pure, humble, obeidient. He honors his father’s dying wish for a final savory meal from his eldest son.
But Jacob & Rebecca intervene with the hastily prepared meal. He lies three times to this father. The second lie is blasphemy for he invokes God who provided the animal so quickly to slaughter. Thus the stolen blessing should have been annulled when it was so immediately discovered.
April 19, 2024 @ 11:37 am
Yet God had other plans. Some days it’s good to remember the judge of all the world does judge rightly.
November 24, 2020 @ 2:07 am
WE should not put obstacles in front of a blind person ,,God calls CAIN and asked him where is your brother ? ,your brother is very important in eyes of God ,