How can we ensure we don't undervalue our spiritual inheritance like Esau? The Weight of a Birthright Genesis 27:38: “Esau said to his father, ‘Do you have only one blessing, my father? Bless me too, my father!’ Then Esau wept aloud.” • Esau’s tears reveal the crushing realization that a priceless, God-given privilege had been traded away for a single meal (Genesis 25:29-34). • A birthright carried covenant promises, priestly leadership in the family, and a double portion of inheritance—benefits designed to shape generations. • Likewise, in Christ our “birthright” includes adoption (Romans 8:15-17), an imperishable inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-4), and the indwelling Spirit as a guarantee (Ephesians 1:13-14). What Causes Us to Undervalue Our Inheritance Today? 1. Immediate appetites overshadow eternal rewards – Hebrews 12:16 warns, “See to it that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal.” 2. Worldly pressure and misplaced priorities – 1 John 2:15-17 contrasts fleeting desires with lasting treasure. 3. Spiritual laziness – Proverbs 13:4; we want blessing without diligence. 4. Unbelief in God’s promises – Numbers 14:11 shows how distrust forfeits blessing. Guarding Our Spiritual Inheritance • Remember the cost: purchased by Christ’s blood (1 Peter 1:18-19). • Keep the long view: “We fix our eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen” (2 Corinthians 4:18). • Cultivate daily fellowship with the Lord – Consistent time in Scripture (Psalm 119:11). – Prayerful dependence (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Choose obedience over impulse – Galatians 5:16: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Value the assembly of believers – Hebrews 10:24-25; community strengthens resolve. • Practice thanksgiving – Psalm 103:2: “Forget not all His benefits.” Gratitude keeps blessings vivid. Signs We Are Valuing Our Inheritance Well • Joy in sacrifice (Hebrews 10:34). • Growth in holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Generational impact—passing faith to children (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Steadfast hope amid trial (Romans 5:3-5). The Blessing of Perseverance Hebrews 10:35-36: “So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward. You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.” • Esau’s lost blessing serves as a caution; Christ’s promised reward motivates endurance. • By treasuring our birthright in Christ above every temporary craving, we receive not only future glory but present fullness of life (John 10:10). |
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