THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 14TH JANUARY 2026, WEDNESDAY MESSAGE
Like Esau
Jennifer Lovelace (Kingston, Jamaica)
Today’s Reading
Genesis 33:1-9
Esau said, “I have enough, my brother; keep what you have for yourself.” – Genesis 33:9 (NRSVUE)
In high school I truly felt abandoned. My parents had been divorced for many years, and financial support from my dad was rare. My mom was the sole provider for our family and did her best to make ends meet. In a desperate bid to lighten her load I went in search of my dad, hoping he would give me money for lunch or bus fare. When I finally found him, he told me he had given everything to my half sibling and turned out his empty pockets. The disappointment and sense of abandonment hit me hard. As tears rolled down my cheeks, I walked away feeling angry and empty.
However, during my devotional time a passage from Genesis 33 resonated deeply with me. In verse 9, Esau tells his brother Jacob that he has enough. I realized that even though Jacob stole Esau’s blessing from their father, God had provided abundantly for Esau.
I came to understand that God’s hands are always full and God’s pockets are never empty. God always has more than enough for us. Now I am filled with gratitude for having much more than my dad could have given me. In moments of disappointment and abandonment, I’ve learned to trust in God’s abundant provision.
Thought for the Day
All I have needed God’s hand has provided.
Prayer Focus
Those feeling forsaken by loved ones
Today’s Prayer
Dear God, thank you for your faithfulness and lovingkindness, which you pour out on us every day. Remind us that you always have enough for us. Amen.
