It might be easy to miss the detail of Isaac’s finally coming around to God’s plan of carrying on the promises through Jacob, not Esau. Just before this, Esau was angry and wanted to kill his twin brother. Just after this, we read about Jacob’s first encounter with God during his travels. But we can learn a lot from Isaac’s blessing here. Yes, Isaac made a mistake earlier in attempting to bless Esau despite God’s revealed will for Jacob to be the son of promise. And yes, his family was divided and in strife. But here God demonstrated His patience and grace. God continued to work on Isaac’s heart and gave him time to obey. And God is just as patient and gracious with us in our slowness and disobedience.

• What disobedience do you need to confess to God today? Repent and thank God for His grace and patience toward you.