Your Bowl of Soup (Genesis 25:27-34) CHOICES

Published on Jan 20, 2025

“Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?”

Genesis 25:32

All for the love of a bowl of soup. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE

Jacob and Esau though twins, were very different in nature. Esau, the outdoorsman, loved a good game any day, while Jacob, more at home, enjoyed cooking. When Esau came in weary from the field that day, all he could think of was food. Jacob, never one to lose an opportunity, lost no time. Pat came the offer. Yummy piping hot soup in exchange for Esau’s birthright.

Esau responds rather dramatically. Was Esau going to die for the lack of one meal? Absolutely not!  He was just so overtaken by his own passions and desires that his birthright didn’t seem worth even a meal. 

Birthright in the Bible refers to the rights and privileges of the family’s firstborn son. In the absence of, or after the father died, the firstborn son assumed the father’s authority and responsibilities. He also inherited twice that was received by the other sons. 

We all agree that Esau was foolish in trading something precious and long-lasting for something small and temporal. But before we judge him too much, just pause and think, don’t we all have our ‘bowls of soup?’ 

Do you compromise time with God and His Word, to pursue careers and wealth? Do you overindulge in your favourite foods, or are addicted to harmful substances, at the cost of your health? Are you addicted to the various screens of your phone, television, computer, etc. to the exclusion of your family time? Are there unhealthy relationships in your life that are ruining your home? What is your ‘bowl of soup’ today?

Lord, I give my misplaced priorities to you today, help me choose right, I pray.

Extended Reading – Genesis 25-26

Read through the Bible in One Year: CLICK HERE

Links to Related Resources
Bible Gateway | Enduring Word | Bible Study Fellowship | FRMS YouVersion Plans

THE POTTERS WHEEL – In a world filled with noise and distractions, “At the Potter’s Wheel” is a companion to the Bible that beckons readers to a place of stillness and connection, encouraging introspection and guiding readers toward a deeper relationship with God.
Author

Preethi Alice Jacob

Preethi Jacob is the author of the yearlong devotional At the Potter’s Wheel, Day by Day. Her journey includes teaching a Bible Study Fellowship class, teaching and leading the Sunday School ministry in her church, leading Bible studies, besides counselling young women. She serves on the Global Mission Team of the United Bible Societies and lives in Bangalore, India with her husband and two young adult children.

We’d love to hear your thoughts!

1 Comment

Leave a Reply

Continue Reading..
In Your Stead (Leviticus 1:1-2)                                           SALVATION

In Your Stead (Leviticus 1:1-2) SALVATION

If we accept Him as our Saviour, we don’t have to pay the rightful penalty for our sin, which is death. Have you chosen to accept this amazing offer of life and salvation?