Session 18
One time desperation is a good thing
From Genesis: A 7-Week Devotional
Sometimes we do crazy things when we feel desperate. When anxiety becomes overwhelming or temptation becomes too great, we can throw everything away for momentary relief. Maybe it’s being less than honest at work, or cultivating a relationship that’s not appropriate. We can be so quick to give up what God has given us for a fleeting reprieve.
Desperation compels us to dependence.
But, desperation doesn’t have to be destructive. It can be an asset. Desperation compels us to dependence. It can either cause us to latch onto whatever is easiest, or it can refine our reliance on God.
When Esau felt desperate, he gave away his inheritance for a bowl of soup. For at least that moment, he failed to believe the promise Jesus affirms in Philippians 4:19: “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” God would have satisfied Esau’s temporary hunger and given him the blessings of his birthright. But, desperation caused Esau to look around for a solution instead of looking to God. He relied on his own ability to meet his need, and He gave up a lifetime of blessing for a moment of satisfaction.
Often, we’re more like Esau than we care to admit. We’ll give up God’s blessing for a poor reflection of His best for us. We’ll sacrifice God’s plan for intimacy in marriage for temporary pleasure. Or, we’ll sacrifice God’s calling on our life for a job we think will meet our needs.
God’s plan for us is greater than anything we could ever ask or imagine. Any plan of ours is nothing more than grasping at straws. Our best efforts outside of God yield nothing more than a bowl of soup. Let’s not give up God’s best for us for something that will only leave us hungry again.
Reflect:
- What blessing or promise of God have you thought of giving away in your desperate search for relief?
- How does your inheritance in Jesus compare to your attempts to solve your problems without Him?
- What does turning to God look like for you?