The Successful Man Who Failed Miserably
The Deceptive Nature of Worldly Success: Lessons from Esau’s Legacy
Have you ever wondered if achieving worldly success is truly the key to a fulfilling life? As we delve into the story of Esau in Genesis 36, we’ll uncover some surprising truths about what really matters in God’s eyes.
God Keeps His Word
Throughout the book of Genesis, we’ve seen a recurring theme: God is faithful to His promises. In Genesis 25:23, God spoke to Rebecca, saying, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you shall be divided; the one shall be stronger than the other, the older shall serve the younger.” This prophecy about Jacob and Esau was fulfilled, demonstrating God’s unwavering commitment to His word.
As we look at Esau’s life in Genesis 36, we’re reminded that God’s faithfulness extends beyond just the “chosen” line. Even though Esau wasn’t part of God’s covenant line, he still experienced blessings. This teaches us two important lessons:
- We can trust God’s plan for our lives. Just as He was faithful to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, He will be faithful to us.
- We can accept God’s sovereignty. Despite human failings and complications, God’s plan prevails.
Earthly Success vs. God’s Blessings
Genesis 36 paints a picture of Esau as a worldly success. Verses 6-7 tell us, “Esau took his wives and his sons and his daughters and all the members of his household, and his livestock and all his beasts and all his property that he had acquired in the land of Canaan. He went into a land away from his brother Jacob. For their possessions were too great for them to dwell together.”
- Esau enjoyed:
- Prosperity and wealth
- Influence and leadership (as seen in the mention of “chiefs” in verses 15-19)
- Many descendants
- Recognition among nations
But here’s the sobering truth: none of this matters without a relationship with God. As Jesus said in Mark 8:36, “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”
I’m reminded of James Montgomery Boyce’s words: “If non-spiritual people experience such an outpouring of merely common grace, how great must the special grace of the regenerate be? If God is so good to people who do not love him, how much greater will we see and experience and know his love for us?”
Your Legacy Matters
As we contrast Esau’s legacy with that of Jacob, we see a stark difference. While Esau’s descendants are listed with worldly accomplishments, Jacob’s line is described as “sojourners,” trusting in God’s promises.
Esau’s life exemplifies five characteristics of an ungodly person:
1. Lack of spiritual insight (Genesis 25:34)
2. Driven by immediate gratification
3. Lack of heart for God’s ways (Romans 9:13-14)
4. Anger and bitterness (Genesis 27:41)
5. Suffering the consequences of sin (Hebrews 12:17)
Life Application: Building a God-Centered Legacy
As we reflect on Esau’s life, let’s consider how we can build a legacy that honors God:
- Trust God’s faithfulness: In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more fully today?
- Redefine success: How can you align your definition of success with God’s priorities?
- Focus on eternal values: What steps can you take to ensure your actions reflect God’s kingdom values?
- Consider your impact: What kind of legacy do you want to leave for your family, friends, and community?
Remember, as Matthew 6:33 instructs us, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Let’s strive to be people who are known not for our worldly accomplishments, but for our love and devotion to God.
In the end, may it be said of us that we loved God, followed Him faithfully, and were recipients of His amazing grace. Let’s not be like Esau, successful in the world’s eyes but missing out on the true blessings of God.
Doing God’s Will
Rooted in Ruin
The Grace Of God
Patterns For Growth
What’s Your Focus
When God Intervenes
We hope you enjoyed the sermon and would love to see you in person. Plan your visit to Community Baptist Church in Spring Hill, Tennessee today!