Genesis 27:30–36

Everyone needs a parent’s blessing to be affirmed and assured that he or she is good and has a promising future. This ancient practice served as the last will and testament of one generation to the next. The Bible reveals that usually the 
father would give both the birthright and the blessing to his eldest son. This “birthright” conveyed to the eldest son the position of leadership in the family and generally provided him with a double portion of the family inheritance. Esau sold his birthright willingly (Gen. 25:29–34), but Jacob stole the blessing by deceiving his father (Gen. 27:1–36). Esau at last comprehended his great loss and the Bible tells us “he cried with an exceedingly great and bitter cry” (Gen. 27:34).

Although the times and culture are different, parents still need to bless their children. All children need from their parents positive words, meaningful touch, and active commitment in their lives.

Behold, I am with you and will 
keep you wherever you go, and 
will bring you back to this land; for 
I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you.Genesis 28:15

Afraid of God? (28:16–19) After Jacob stole Esau’s blessing, Esau wanted to kill him (27:41). Jacob ran, and on his lonely journey he lay down to rest and had a strange dream. Jacob realized that God had revealed Himself, and the Bible tells us that Jacob “was afraid.” Jacob later remembered this moment as a turning point in his life: “God Almighty appeared to me at Luz in the land of Canaan and blessed me” (48:3). God’s awesomeness should inspire fear (reverence), but don’t stop there. Let it lead you to faith.
Topic: Fear/Fear of God