Do you know the experience of being part of a story that looks like human manipulation and deceitfulness have been more at play than the hand of God?
It seems so unfair doesn’t it? They have got away with it and no one is listening or seeing what is blatantly clear to you.
And so you trust God because there is nothing else you can do.
Many know Jacob’s name as ‘supplanter’, ‘deceiver’ or ‘holder of the heel’ because he twice deprived his brother, Esau, out of his rights as the firstborn son.
Such is the story that comes to our minds as we read the next verse in this great hall of faith.
“By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future.” (Hebrews 11 v 20)
In the ancient world there was nothing more powerful within a family than the parental blessing. They looked into the future and spoke words over their child. This brief sentence is in line with what the author is writing to the community of believers instructing them to look to what is ahead and not to jeopardise that by looking behind and returning to Judaism.
We all know with hindsight that the Messianic promised line had to continue through Jacob and not Esau. Despite Esau being stronger and had the right to claim the firstborn inheritance he was not God’s sovereign choice.
If our filter of life is what is fair then we are going to miss the story of God. But if our filter in life is on the roles we play in the ever-revealing plan of God then our focus is on His glory and pleasure not ours.
So if I am chosen to be blessed above the rest then realise it is not because I am better than the rest and if I am not then I don’t walk away or abandon the faith, I accept the glory of God and His purpose which is higher than anything or anyone. For God’s glory is higher than man’s deception.
Missions Paul 