It is so easy to get frustrated and confused when reading how Jacob stole his brother’s blessing. Esau willingly gave the birthright for a bowl of soup, but Jacob and his mother planned and carried out falsehood when taking the blessing. Yet in chapter 28 when Rebecca convinces Isaac that Jacob should get a wife from back home Isaac blessed Jacob again on his journey. It is as though Isaac knew that Jacob should be blessed and had the right heart even though he showed favoritism toward Esau. Wonder why Isaac is not recorded as having set things straight or addressed the known sin? Instead he confirms the blessing. There are probably several things going on in this dysfunctional family. It looks as though it is wife led and that can lead to problems. The man is supposed to be the head of the home. Isaac had heard what was revealed to Rebecca even from the time the children were in her womb. Did he not trust what was told to her? The sons’ jealousy and rivalry is evident from the beginning. There may have been a sense deep down inside of Isaac that Jacob was to be the child of blessing because of Esau’s decisions and lack of respect for his place in the family. God knew Esau’s heart and his decisions about his wives reinforced the attitude of his heart.
No matter what was going on in each person’s heart, God was still in control. God got Jacob’s attention and in the end broke his attitude and heart. The deceiver was deceived. God was going to conquer Jacob to bless him. Deception would be a part of his life for his entire life. It continued through his sons. I am thankful God chose to use him anyway because it gives me hope because I too am a broken individual that longs to be right with God.