In 1989 the Minnesota Vikings traded five players from their current roster, and six future draft picks to the Dallas Cowboys for running back Hershel Walker. They thought Walker was the missing piece for their Super Bowl run, but they were sadly mistaken. Not only did Walker play poorly during his time in Minnesota, but the Cowboys were able to draft some key players that launched them to three Super Bowl championships in the 1990s. The Vikings gave up a lot for almost nothing in return!
This problem of making bad deals did not begin with the Vikings. Throughout the Bible, we can read about people who give up a lot for things that would only temporarily satisfy them.
The case of Esau (Genesis 25:27-34)
- Esau was the oldest son of Isaac and Rebekah. This meant he was entitled to the birthright blessings. He was set to receive a double portion of the inheritance left by his rich father. Unfortunately, he would sell his birthright for a pot of stew.
- What was he thinking? How good was the stew? Did he later regret his decision?
- The Hebrew writer says Esau later regret this decision (Hebrews 12:15-17).
- Christians have an extraordinary inheritance waiting for them in heaven. This inheritance is glorious and everlasting (Matthew 5:11-12; 1 Peter 1:3-5).
What would you exchange for your inheritance?
- Would you exchange it for worldly riches? Judas did (Matthew 26:14-16). The rich young ruler and Demas did (Mark 10:17-22; 2 Timothy 4:10). Your worldly riches will one day be destroyed, but your inheritance is incorruptible (2 Peter 3:10).
- Would you exchange it for an immoral relationship (Matthew 19:1-9; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11)? While that relationship may satisfy you now, it will bring nothing but pain and sorrow in eternity (Mark 9:42-48)!
- Would you exchange it for your pride and unwillingness to submit fully to the will of God (Luke 18:14))? Solomon talks about the folly of pride in Proverbs 16:18.
Conclusion: There is no price tag that you can put on your inheritance in heaven!
