The story of Jacob and Esau is full of twists, but Genesis 32 gives us a remarkable insight into how God can defy human expectation. From the beginning, Esau was the firstborn; by human standards, he had every right to inherit the birthright and blessing. But, Jacob, through deception, took Esau’s blessing. By human eyes, Esau seemed deprived, cheated, and reduced.

He appeared to have lost everything: his inheritance, his father’s favor, and his rightful place. Yet, when the Bible later describes Esau in Genesis chapter 32, verses 6 to 7; “Esau, too, was coming to meet him, and four hundred men were with him.” Esau is no longer the impoverished man people might have thought. He is wealthy, influential, and strong.

What the world writes off, God can restore and even elevate. Just because circumstances look like failure doesn’t mean your destiny is lost.

Jacob had spent decades away from home, deceiving and being deceived. He feared Esau, believing that he had lost everything. Out of fear, he split his family and possessions into groups. He also sent gifts ahead to pacify Esau. Unknowingly to him, God was orchestrating the situation. Esau’s wealth and position were already in place, showing that God’s promises over a person are never nullified by deception, delay, or setbacks. 

This teaches a vital truth: Even when you feel defeated, overlooked, or cheated, God is at work behind the scenes, restoring your blessings and fulfilling His promise. Esau's story reminds us that divine destiny cannot be derailed by human failure or deceit.

Your past setbacks, betrayals, or failures do not define your future. Even if you feel “written off” by people or society, God can restore, elevate, and multiply what has been lost. Your breakthrough may be closer than you think. What seems lost could already be in God’s hands, prepared for restoration and increase.

Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You that nothing is lost when You are in control. Just as You restored Esau’s wealth and position despite human expectation, restore and elevate everything in my life that the world has written off. Turn setbacks, losses, and betrayals into testimonies of Your power. Give me wisdom to navigate challenges and faith to trust Your timing. Let Your favor open doors, restore what is missing, and bless me beyond what I can imagine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.