We all have been subject to favoritism at some point in our lives. Chosen by dad for a trip to California, only to experience an inconvenient trip. Was subject to a perceived unjust action from a mother who was the opposite of dad's favoritism. Geneses 25 is a story of favoritism, the account of Isaac, his wife Rebekah and their twin sons Esau and Jacob. Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of soup. Rebekah preferred Jacob because he was a mama's boy; Isaac preferred Esau because he was a man's man. Isaac attempt to give his birthright to Esau, but Rebekah intervened and put her son Jacob in a dangerous situation. Esau felt he was deserving of both the birthright and his father's blessing. Esau intended to kill his brother after his father passed, so Rebekah sent Jacob away.
How can a family relationship go so wrong? Each in this family appear to be living for themselves. How many of our families fall into this trap? Sibling rivalry can start with parental favoritism. Such favoritism can also break up a marriage. At the least, favoritism promotes the spirit of rejection. But its never too late to ask for forgiveness from God, and to develop the proper family relationships. God is completely impartial over all His creation, without favorites. He chose to bind Himself to all of us while we are still sinners. Through Him, we can break the spirit of rejection.
