Full or Fulfilled

Read Genesis 27:25–29

Reflection

If you’ve ever watched or read the children’s story Aladdin, you will most certainly know the larger-than-life character, Genie. Genie is a magical power that is trapped inside a lamp and, once released by Aladdin, is said to grant the person who freed him anything that person wishes for.

What would you wish for? Would it sound a bit like the blessing that Isaac gave to Jacob? After all, who wouldn’t want riches on Earth, power over nations, and protection from all your enemies? You might finally realize why Jacob went as far as he did to get this blessing.

When you reflect on the things that you enjoy the most, you might be surprised by how little they have to do with wealth and power. Having your best surf in perfect conditions, figuring out how to play your favorite song on the guitar, or talking and laughing over a meal with friends and family – those are the moments that bring a deeper kind of joy and achievement – things that are not bought or forced. Isaac’s blessing was incredible, but it wouldn’t give Jacob or Esau the ultimate fulfillment they were pursuing.

The next time you start to wish for a better life, stop and consider the things that are already so good in the present. God blesses us in the big and small. Take time to appreciate it all.

Consider and Pray

What things are you jealous of right now? What can you be grateful for in the here and now? Pray that God would release you of any envy and be grateful for what you have already been given to enjoy.