Genesis 27:30-41 “Esau’s Lost Hope”

“Esau pleaded, ‘But do you have only one blessing? Oh my father, bless me, too!’ Then Esau broke down and wept.”
Genesis 27:38 (NLT)

Some decisions are irreversible. We can apologize. We can determine to do better next time. We can even seek God’s forgiveness. God will forgive us if we confess our sins (1 John 1:9). But like ripples in a lake, events that have been set into motion cannot be undone.

This was the tragic situation with Esau. He thought he could trade the birthright while keeping the blessing, but it was a package deal. If we would receive the blessings of God, then we must obey His commandments. Sadly, Esau had little interest in spiritual things. He, like so many other humans, was a man living for the flesh.

Let’s consider the warning of Hebrews 12:15-17:

“Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his birthright as the firstborn son for a single meal. You know that afterward, when he wanted his father’s blessing, he was rejected. It was too late for repentance, even though he begged with bitter tears.”
Hebrews 12:15–17 (NLT)

Esau couldn’t undo what had been done, but he could have still received God’s grace. Even when we blow it, God will give us grace if we humble ourselves and repent. Then He will help us “go and sin no more”.

Are you dealing with the consequences of a poor decision? Rather than looking for someone else to blame, ask God to show you your part. God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). He is near the brokenhearted. Whoever comes to Jesus, He will by no means cast out (John 6:37). You don’t have to live a life consumed with regrets. Forgiveness, cleansing, and a new beginning are available to all who turn and trust in Christ.