Received

Read Genesis 33:5–11

Reflection

It’s often said it can be better to give than to receive. This is because receiving gifts, particularly in our culture, is hard to do. We let our pride get in the way of allowing people to bless us through their time, money, and other offers of support. Jacob knew how much he had taken from Esau and really wanted to give back generously to him; he wanted to repay his debt.

Esau, however, did not need the gifts; he had more than enough through what he had earned over the years. Jacob was right to think that Esau was like God because he was experiencing Grace – Undeserved Favor. Esau was focused on reunion with his brother and family, not compensation. While he didn’t need what Jacob was offering, he accepted it because of Jacob’s need to show love in return.

Whether you have a lot in life or a little, there are times when you just need to let people bless you because they want to show you love and support. Perhaps they feel they need to repay the kindness you have shown them. Allow yourself to accept help from others. It is Christ’s Way of showing Himself through the goodness of His people to one another. As Scripture reminds us, “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:35, NLT).

Consider and Pray

What kindness has someone shown you recently? Pray that you would not let pride get in the way of accepting the goodness of others, and ask Christ for opportunities to bless others in the same way.