FRIDAY

Genesis 27:41

• How did Jacob’s deceit affect his brother? What can you learn from that?

Perhaps you’re familiar with the story of brothers Jacob and Esau. Jacob tricks their father into giving him the birthright that was rightfully his brother Esau’s. Jacob gets what he wants, but inherits a feud so intense that it lasts for generations. The brothers eventually technically make up, but it is never the same. Gregg Hunter observes*: “Jacob is forgiven by Esau, but they aren’t really reconciled. So Jacob again lies to his brother in order to get away from him, and the two of them never truly reconnect. This episode highlights the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. While these two are closely linked, there is a distinction.”

Deceit is so damaging to relationships because it fractures trust, and trust is essential for relational intimacy. Deceit is dangerous. We must actively pursue honesty and authenticity so we don’t find ourselves in a Jacob-and-Esau situation.

How can you pursue authenticity and honesty today?