From Lose it for Life Day by Day:
Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God's blessing--but by then it was too late, tears or no tears. ~ Hebrews 12:16-17 (The Message)
Esau was a short-term, concrete thinker. He was so focused on his present need and hunger that he was willing to sacrifice his future life and needs, unable to see the value of a lifelong gift because it was yet to be.
How many times have we done this with our dependence on food? We've reached for a bite in the moment, giving away our inheritance of a healthy vital body in the future. We've impulsively consumed foods and quantities in the present that have significantly diminished our quality of life to come. We've put ourselves at risk for heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and joint replacements. The short-term fixes have overshadowed our long-term health and usefulness to God.
And afterward, we have all cried bitter tears, like Esau. Yet God's grace is abundant! We can start today, this afternoon, this evening! By focusing our eyes on the Lord and reaching out for help in times of temptation, we can be filled by Him and His people--even in our hungriest moments. Our future and hope is in Him.
Today, Lord, strengthen me in the intensely hungry moments when food looks like the answer. I entrust You with my future.
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