Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew. Esau ate the meal, then got up and left. He showed contempt for his rights as the firstborn. [Genesis 25.34]
Esau's deal with Jacob really doesn't carry any significance in modern Western society. I think most Westerners who read this (including myself) have little to no basis of understanding how Esau showed contempt for his birthright.
With this being said, I can only assume not only the rights of the firstborn were significant, but also the manner in which those rights were regarded was highly important. In other words, Esau showed contempt for himself. Perhaps a modern psychiatrist would diagnose Esau with low self-esteem.
But it goes deeper than just self-esteem. When Esau sold his birthright he disregarded what had become years of tradition if nothing else. Esau not only disrespected himself, but also the customs and traditions of his people.
In my recent personal revelations about the Kingdom of God, this topic is most relevant! For one to consider the work of Christ on behalf of the world and then disregard it, is no different than Esau's infraction, but with much great consequence! Very similar to the privilege Esau was born into, believers are born again into a royal family - not to mention a royal priesthood! For an alleged 'believer' to regard himself as anything less than a royal priest in the Kingdom of God is an insult to God and the blood of Christ!
We should not disrespect the Kingdom by disrespecting our role in it as believers in Christ!
Father, all glory belongs to You! You have brought me into Your Kingdom and made me a king and priest! Help me to more fully comprehend this reality and live it out in a manner that is useful to You and Your Kingdom!
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