Grasping for Blessing
August 17, 2025
We all long to be blessed — to be seen, named, and affirmed. But like Jacob, we often grasp for that blessing in all the wrong ways — by pretending, performing, and hiding who we truly are. In Part 2 of Grasping for God, we will examine Genesis 27 to understand the power of blessing, the problem of seeking it apart from God, and the promise of a blessing freely given through Jesus — the true Firstborn who was rejected so we could be accepted.
Passage: Genesis 27:1-27
The ##Power## of Blessing (Gen. 27:4)
The ##Problem## with Blessing (Gen. 27:18, 32)
The ##Promise## of Blessing (Gen. 27:33)
Principle
##Sin## drives us to disguise ourselves in a desperate bid for blessing, but ##grace## reveals that in Christ, the blessing of God is freely given to the ##undeserving##.
Practice
Take off the ##mask##.
- Name the ways you’ve tried to earn approval through pretending.
- Listen for the voice of your Heavenly Father
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Everyone wants to feel special — to be chosen, affirmed, and celebrated. As a child, was there a moment when someone’s words or actions made you feel truly “blessed” or deeply seen? How did that impact you?
HEAR
Read Genesis 25:19-28
- What stands out to you about how Rebekah and Isaac raised their sons? How could parental favoritism influence a child’s sense of identity or self-worth?
- In verse 23, God reveals His plan for the younger to rule over the older. Why do you think Isaac appears to reject this prophecy? Have you ever held onto a personal preference instead of God’s promise?
- How does this passage foreshadow the deception and grasping in Genesis 27?
Read Genesis 25:29-34
- What does Esau’s choice to sell his birthright reveal about his values? What could Jacob’s actions show about his character and motivations?
- Do you think Jacob was merely being clever, or does this reveal something more about his insecurity and ambition?
- Have you ever traded something valuable for quick benefits? What was the result?
Read Romans 9:1-18
- How does this passage reshape the story of Jacob and Esau? What do Paul’s words indicate about the role of God’s sovereign choice in blessing and salvation?
- In what ways does this text challenge modern ideas about fairness and human effort?
- How does Romans 9 help us understand that God’s blessing is not earned, deserved, or manipulated — but given through mercy and grace?
HUDDLE
Where in your life are you seeking approval — at work, with family, or even in your relationship with God? Are there ways you’re pretending or performing to feel worthy of love or blessing? Talk about it honestly, seek accountability, and take time to pray for each other—asking God to speak His blessing over you not because of who you've tried to be, but because of who you are in Christ.
Daily Reading
As you read each passage, look for connections to this week’s sermon and small group discussion. Invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
- Day 1: Genesis 25:19-34
- Day 2: Genesis 27:1-29
- Day 3: Genesis 27:30-46
- Day 4: Romans 9:1-18
- Day 5: Luke 15
- Day 6: Isaiah 43:1-7
- Day 7: Ephesians 1:3-14
Think Deeper
- Can you remember a time when someone’s words of blessing had a profound impact on your life?
- Have you ever pretended to be someone or something you aren’t just to gain someone’s approval or blessing?
- What masks are you currently wearing to receive a blessing?
Suggested Reading
The Patriarchs, by Stephen Davey
Abraham, by Charles Swindoll
Limping with God, by Chad Bird
Joseph, by Charles Swindoll
Joseph, by R.C. Sproul
Check out these and other books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB.