The Tramp Preacher shares the story of Esau and Jacob from the Book of Genesis.
Gas From The Tramp Preacher’s Tank.
Genesis 33:9. “And Esau said, I have enough my brother, keep
that thou hast unto thy Self”.
Just one scene overstressed on which we base our opinion of
Esau. You know one fly spoils the meal. In your study of the brothers Esau and Jacob from the Book of Genesis I am sure you
will find Esau a most loveable fellow. The glory of Jacob was not
so by nature but by the grace of God. In contrast to Jacob, Esau
was a natural born gentleman. He ranks with Joseph in not holding a
grudge.
Let us look at the general background of his character. He lived
in the open, a very daring man. He pitted his strength and skill
against wild beasts. He surely lived a hazardous life. Jacob was in
constant fear of him.
When we consider his character we find him simple, happy and
good natured. He believed everybody to be honest and never
suspecting evil in his fellow men. He never suspected hidden traps
or meanings. It was on this generous and unsuspicious trait that
Jacob counted.
Let us note some of his engaging qualities. Without his loyalty
this Hebrew house would have been in disgrace. Although he was
disappointed he would hold his hand while his father lived, but in
twenty years this quality was crowned with wonderful forgiveness.
He had a sense of humor. When his brother wanted to meet him and
talk things over. Esau sent word to Jacob, “I will meet him
with 400 men”. This caused Jacob to sweat blood for a couple
weeks and this was to be Jacob’s only punishment. (Esau could
only do it at a distance).
Jacob prepared to meet his brother and sent his servants ahead
with 400 of his best cattle. Then when they were presented to Esau
he uttered the words of the text “I have enough, keep these for
yourself”. I would that all of us could have such a spirit.
The only damaging scene in his life was the red pottage. When
you consider a hungry man you may understand the situation. Esau
could have twisted Jacob like putty in his hands and have taken the
meal. It was a law that the birth-right could not be bartered so
another trick had to be resorted to.
Esau was a gentleman but he was not serious enough to carry the
deep message of Grace to a needy world.
