January 31, 2022 - Genesis 27-29

God works in mysterious ways His wonders to perform! I do not know who first stated those words, but I find myself repeating them from time to time. I marvel at how God makes decisions to work in individuals that I or others would not choose to use. God sees beyond the imperfections and continues to accomplish His plan!

People like Rebekah and Jacob set about scheming and attempting to get their own way even at the cost of hurting those they loved. Rebekah deceived her husband who cared and provided for her. Her love for Jacob more than Esau led to trickery and the eventual stealing of Esau's birthright. This removal of an honored position in the family from the twin brother was an utterly deceitful act of selfishness and pride.

Throughout the history of Israel, God has taken sinful people and used them to accomplish His ultimate plan. The story of the gospel is filled with individuals who are sinners and self-centered in their desire to accomplish goals and objectives for their own lives. The scriptures do not alter their lives to make them appear better or saintly but instead reveal their warts, defects, and failures.

As we read through the Bible this year, repeatedly we will find God using people that are unworthy vessels for His work. Reflect upon how much God has used people who are selfish, opinionated, and arrogant that would appear to disqualify them to be workers for God.

Take a moment today to thank Him for His patience and mercy in your life. Allow God to reveal any act or attitude that has emerged that could tarnish your testimony. God is always faithful to forgive and to renew us (1 John 1:9).