The Temptation of the Immediate

“See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled; that there be no immoral or godless person like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal. For you know that even afterwards, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought for it with tears.” Hebrews 12:15-17

As the first born son in a Hebrew family, Esau was in a position of extreme advantage. Much of his father’s wealth, land, and power would one day be his. Regardless of his affirming heritage, he was not above temptation.

Satan tempted Esau to resign his birthright to his younger brother after a time of intense stress. The worst time to make a crucial, life-impacting decision is during times of physical or emotional stress. The enemy knows the vulnerability of those moments.

He also knows if he can get us to change our focus from Jesus to the intensity of our circumstances, we will make horrendous mistakes. Had Esau not fallen for Satan’s temptation by trying to satisfy an immediate need, he never would have given away his birthright - a decision that haunted him the rest of His life.

You may be facing an intense temptation to make an immediate decision. Deep down inside you sense God telling you to wait; but you are afraid that if you wait, you will miss the opportunity. Take time to lay the matter completely before Him in prayer. His timing is always perfect, and He will satisfy your deepest need. Had Esau waited in wisdom, He never would have known a moment of need.

“Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise.” Ephesians 5:15