Favoritism

"And Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of his venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob." Genesis 25:28

Today we are continuing in our study to learn lessons from the lives of some of the mothers in the Bible.  This morning I want us to look at the life of Rebekah.  The lesson we learn from her is:  don't show favoritism. 

Rebekah showed favoritism to her son Jacob over Esau.  As a result, it divided her home, her sons were at odds against each other, one wanted to kill the other, Jacob cheated his brother out of his birthright, and she deceived her own husband to get the blessing for her favorite son.  The Bible tells us that a wise woman will build up her house, but a foolish woman will tear it down with her own hands. (Proverbs 14:1)  Rebekah did just that through her favoritism-- tore down her own house.   

The Bible tells us not to show respect of persons.  Sure, there are some people that we are closer to than others, and there are certain traits that we prefer and like in some over others.  And I would go "to bat" for my family before I would for a stranger.  Yet, the Bible tells us that we should be willing to "lay down our lives" even for a friend, and a stranger.  

We need to learn to look at all people through the eyes of the Lord.  We need to see them the way Jesus sees them and treat them accordingly.  Jesus loves us all.  Jesus died to save us all.  Jesus has a plan and purpose for all of us.  Jesus sees each person as valuable.  Let's pray we start seeing others that way.

Have a great day.  Are you viewing people through the eyes of favoritism?