10,11 Mar -- Want More Money?

Readings for Sat 10 and Sun 11 March are -- Gen 26:12-27:29; Ps 9:7-12; Prov 2:9-10; Mt 10:1-20.

Isn't God gracious! The other day we had the story of Isaac trying to deceive Abimelech out of fear and a lack of faith. Yet straight after that we find: "The LORD blessed him, and the man became rich and kept getting richer until he was very wealthy." (Gen 26:12-13) But all is not so rosy when it comes to relationships. Things are very tense with Abimelech. And closer to home, the Hittite wives of Esau (whom Isaac favoured) "made life bitter for Isaac and Rebekah." (Gen 26:35).

The unhealthy state of family relationships is further evident in the intrigue, favouritism and divided loyalties in the blessing stories (in chapter 27). The startling impression is that everyone seems to be taking things into their own hands rather than seeking God's will and trusting him.

Material wealth doesn't guarantee happy family relationships. In fact, it often seems to lead to strained family relationships. What would you rather have? Seeking first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness is the way to go. All sorts of other wonderful blessings then follow.