I have always been bothered by the scripture, ‘Jacob have I loved Esau have I hated’ (Malachi 1:2-3/ Romans 9:13). To me that is a really strong statement. After all, how could God hate anyone and yet love the ‘ deceiver’ Jacob?

When the twins, Jacob and Esau were born, Jacob was born second, holding onto Esau’s heel.

“Afterward his brother came forth, and his hand grasped Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob (supplanter).” (Genesis 25:26 AMP)

Through his life Jacob really wanted Esau’s birthright. He knew the value of the birthright and its blessings. I’m sure you know the story. When opportunity presented itself, Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for a pot of stew.

So Jacob the youngest, legally received the birthright, while the bible says Esau despised it (Genesis 25:34).

In addition, with the help of his mother Rebekah, Jacob stole the final blessing from his father Isaac, when he was on his deathbed. This blessing was also meant for the eldest son (Genesis 27:27-30).

In all honesty, I could never understand this behavior. How could Jacob be so deceptive and just take something that wasn’t rightly his? How could he act so entitled?

But, just recently a lady spoke at church and one thing she said was very interesting. She mentioned, it is really ok to be entitled to the things God has for us and to pursue them with passion.

This was a new way of looking at things for me.

In this context I understand Jacob a bit better. Even though his methods were wrong, Jacob’s heart wanted the fullness of God’s covenant blessing more than anything else – and I realize now, this is what God loved about Jacob.