God determined a path and purpose for both Jacob and Esau before they were born, yet they still were responsible for their choices. Because they occupied (literally) the same space and competed for prominence, Jacob and Esau struggled with each other—just as they struggled with God’s decisions. This complicated story and family remind us how God calls us to simply trust him. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Read Genesis 25:19-34. If you chose one or two words to describe each of the four people in this passage (Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, Esau), what would those words be? 2. What does this story reveal concerning a tension between God’s decisions and human responsibility? What did God determine? What did Jacob and Esau choose? What are some of the results or implications? 3. Observe the contrast between the longsuffering faith of Isaac and Rebekah (v. 19-21) who waited 20 years before having children and the short-sightedness of Esau (v. 29-34) and manipulation of Jacob (v. 29-34) as well as the contrast between Jacob and Esau. How have you faced the pull of manipulation or instant gratification in opposition to patient faith? 4. What did you hear this weekend that inspired you, challenged you, or sparked disagreement or further consideration? 5. Assuming Jacob and Esau knew about God’s message to their mother (v. 23), how do you think they might have felt? When the blessings you have received from God do not include those you really want, how have you responded in the past and how would you like to respond in the present and future? 6. Jacob and Esau occupied the same space and struggled when they were made to love each other. Have you had any experiences like that? How can trusting God inspire love for others? Is there someone God is calling you to show his love?