I’ve certainly been there more than I’d like to admit—trying to force something to happen, manipulating a situation, or rushing ahead because waiting on God feels impossible. Genesis 27 is a story full of that kind of striving that hits home for us. Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Esau all had their own plans, and not one of them was fully trusting God. The result? A broken family, deception, bitterness, and regret.

This passage from our sermon yesterday reminds us that when we put our desires ahead of God’s direction, we make a pretty good mess of things. But it also shows us something else—when genuine love is missing, relationships crumble. Isaac played favorites. Rebekah used manipulation. Jacob deceived. Esau grew bitter. Not one of them chose love. And their family suffered for it.

This connects directly to our theme for 2025: Love—More and More. Love is not just a feeling; it’s a choice that “does.” Trusting God, seeking truth, and putting others before ourselves. So how do we grow in love from Genesis 27?

Trust God instead of controlling outcomes.
Rebekah and Jacob schemed to “help” God, but love trusts that His timing and ways are better than ours. Where are you trying to force a situation instead of waiting on God?

Love people more than you love being right.
Isaac ignored God’s will because of his preference for Esau. Esau let bitterness consume him. Are you holding onto something that’s keeping you from loving someone well?

Forgive before it’s too late.
Jacob and Esau’s division lasted for years. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive before time runs out?

Genesis 27 is messy, but God’s love is bigger than human failure. No matter where you’ve fallen short, He invites you to grow in love—more and more. Let’s not just learn from this passage—let’s live it. Who do you need to love better today?