Through It All Part 8

Part 8 The Blight of Bitterness Hebrews 12:14–15 1. His Careless Choice — He Sold the Birthright Genesis 25:29–34 A. Consider the value of the birthright Deuteronomy 21:17 Picture: A biblical firstborn son receiving a double portion of his father’s estate. B. Consider the foolishness of the exchange Picture: Jacob cooking stew as Esau approaches, tired and hungry. C. Consider the condition of his heart Genesis 25:34 Hebrews 12:16 Proverbs 19:3 2. His Crushing Consequence — He Lost the Blessing Genesis 27:34 ● Don’t despise God’s blessings Galatians 6:7 ● Don’t confuse regret with repentance Genesis 27:34 Statement: Esau cried “with a great and exceeding bitter cry,” but he was not truly repentant. He was bitter over the consequences of giving up his birthright. 2 Corinthians 7:10 Hebrews 12:17 ● Don’t assume you will get another chance Philippians 3:13–14 3. His Consuming Complaint — He Wept in Bitterness Genesis 27:34 A. Bitterness distorts our vision Genesis 27:36 B. Bitterness defiles those around us Hebrews 12:15 C. Bitterness is defeated by grace Hebrews 12:15 4. His Continuing Conflict — He Hated Jacob for Years Genesis 27:41 Picture: An older Esau, still resentful toward Jacob. A. Resentment breeds hatred Genesis 27:41 B. Rehearsing the hurt keeps it alive C. Redemption comes by grace Ezekiel 36:26 “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you…” Five Biblical Steps to Uprooting Bitterness 1. Recognize The Root Hebrews 12:15 Psalm 139:23–24 2. Release The Offense Ephesians 4:31–32 Romans 12:19 3. Replace The Thoughts Philippians 4:8 4. Respond With Love Matthew 5:44 5. Rest In God’s Sovereignty Jeremiah 29:11