Though You Build, I Will Tear Down

Esau could have inherited his father’s estate and lived at ease, yet he treated his birthright lightly. God warned that he would tear down whatever was built, but Esau did not turn back. Insisting that he could live by his own strength, he set himself against God.

A work carved from stone keeps its shape for many years, while one shaped from sand gives way to a single wave. Faith built firmly on obedience to the Word endures like stone, but a faith that is full only on the outside scatters as easily as sand. Edom boasted of its own strength, yet when God took away the hedge of protection, it collapsed of its own accord and in the end vanished from history.

Those who have received God’s warning must not make excuses but must turn back. The prodigal son was welcomed when he returned to his father, and in the same way, when what has been built keeps falling down, it is a sign that God is knocking, calling his people to draw near to him again. Those who live according to God’s will, without pride and without doubt, will receive the very love and blessing that Jacob received.