In this excellent article by Erik Raymond from Desiringod.org we are reminded of God's involvement in our lives despite or sin.
God’s Sovereignty in the Mess of Human Sin - Eric Raymond
"Life is messy. We often feel the chaos in our families, relationships, and the world around us. As we turn to the Bible, we might expect to find stories of upright people who inspire us. Instead, we often find accounts of flawed individuals, like the one in Genesis 27. It’s a chapter full of deception, favoritism, and sin. But in this, we’re reminded of a comforting truth: God’s plans are never derailed by human sin. In fact, he sovereignly works through our brokenness to fulfill his perfect purposes. Or to say it another way, God hits the bullseye with broken arrows.
Deception Unveiled
Genesis 27 gives us a front-row seat to a dysfunctional family drama. Isaac, blinded physically and spiritually, plans to bless his eldest son, Esau, contrary to God’s revealed will. Esau, impulsive and spiritually indifferent, is eager to reclaim a blessing he despised earlier. Meanwhile, Rebekah manipulates the situation to favor her younger son, Jacob, who then engages in outright deceit to steal the blessing. This family is far from a paragon of virtue.
As readers, it’s easy to cringe at their behavior. But here’s the hard truth: this story mirrors us. We see our willingness to manipulate circumstances for personal gain in Rebekah and Jacob’s deceit. We see how we elevate our desires over God’s will in Isaac’s preferences. This is a picture of humanity—broken and in desperate need of grace.
God’s Sovereign Plan
What’s remarkable about the story isn’t the characters but the God behind the scenes. Despite the lies and selfish schemes, God’s purpose prevails. Jacob receives the blessing, in line with the prophecy given to Rebekah before his birth (Genesis 25:23). God had declared that the older would serve the younger, and no amount of human plotting could change that.
This is a humbling reminder: God doesn’t need perfect people to accomplish his plans. In fact, he delights in using flawed individuals to demonstrate his power and grace. The story of Jacob foreshadows the ultimate display of this truth—Jesus Christ. The line of Jacob, filled with broken people, leads to the perfect Savior who redeems sinners like us
God hits the bullseye with broken arrows.
Consequences of Sin
While God works through sin, He never condones it. The deception in Genesis 27 leads to painful consequences. Jacob flees for his life, estranged from his family. Rebekah, who orchestrated the scheme, never sees her beloved son again. Esau’s hatred festers, creating division that lasts for generations.
Sin always leaves a trail of destruction. Even when God graciously forgives us, we often face its earthly consequences. This should serve as a sobering warning. The fleeting satisfaction of deceit, selfishness, or sin will always give way to regret and suffering.
Seeing Christ in the Story
Despite Jacob’s actions, God blesses him. This is not because of Jacob’s merit but God’s grace. This grace extends to sinners like us. None of us deserve God’s blessings. Yet, through Jesus, we receive forgiveness, reconciliation, and the promise of eternal life.
If you’re reading this and feel the weight of your sin, take heart. The same God who worked through Jacob’s brokenness invites you to experience his redeeming grace. Repent of your sin, trust in Christ, and know that God can transform even the messiest life for his glory.
Every page of Scripture points us to Jesus, and Genesis 27 is no exception. Just as God used Jacob’s deception to fulfill his plan, he used the betrayal and deceit surrounding Christ’s crucifixion to accomplish our salvation.
Think of the parallels: Judas betrayed Jesus for silver. False witnesses lied to convict him. Pilate, though reluctant, sentenced him to death. Yet, through these sinful acts, God brought about the greatest good—the redemption of his people.
Looking at the cross, we can see the ultimate evidence of God’s sovereignty. If he could use such dark circumstances to bring about our salvation, we can trust Him to work in the messiness of our lives today.
Encouragement for Today
As you look at the brokenness in your own life or the chaos in the world, remember this: God is not absent. He is at work, even when things seem out of control. His purposes are good, and his kingdom is advancing.
Let this truth bring you peace. God’s plan will not fail. He uses broken arrows to hit the bullseye. Trust in Him, rest in his grace, and live in light of the hope we have in Christ.
(Note: this is an excerpt from a sermon I preached at Redeemer Fellowship Church. The entire sermon is here.) " from the article: God’s Sovereignty in the Mess of Human Sin - Erik Raymond
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