The story of Isaac’s fatherhood journey began similarly to his dad, Abraham. Just like Abraham prayed for a son, Isaac, too, pleaded with the Lord on behalf of his wife, Rebekah, because she was unable to have children. God answered his prayer, and blessed Isaac and Rebekah with twin boys! From the beginning of her pregnancy, Rebekah knew something was happening in her womb, so she consulted with the Lord, and we see the Lord’s response in today’s key verse. Although Esau was born first, God had already chosen Jacob as Isaac’s successor.

The Bible says that Isaac loved Esau; perhaps this was why Isaac was moving forward in giving his blessing to Esau, although the Lord had chosen Jacob. Whenever we hear the story of how Jacob “stole” Esau’s birthright, we are quick to see Jacob as the bad guy, especially when his mom helps him trick his dad into giving him the blessing as well! However, if we pause and see the entirety of the story, God had told Rebekah directly of his plans for the boys. Therefore, when she saw her husband’s plan of giving Esau the blessing regardless of what God had said, perhaps she felt the need to step in. Esau had sold his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew, and although Isaac wanted his firstborn to have the blessing that was “rightfully” his, God always sees the heart and chose the son who would be the best vessel to work through, and who would bring honor and glory to Him.

We, as parents, have a huge role in molding the lives of our children. Sometimes we may try to influence their life decisions according to our own desires, however, God already has a plan for them. Our job is simply to guide them and teach them to listen to, and obey, God’s will. Our Heavenly Father really does know best, and when we can believe and trust that, we will be the instruments God uses to help our children grow into who God intended them to be.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for your perfect plan, not only for my life, but for my children as well. Please keep me from trying to influence them with my own desires, but instead trust you with every detail of their lives and know that your way is always best. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.  

1.    Genesis 25:23 (NLT).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.