SUMMARY: Verdict
OVERVIEW: Although Reuben was Israel’s firstborn, he was disciplined and lost his firstborn rights because he slept with his father’s concubine. As a result, Joseph received Reuben’s privileges.
BIG IDEA: Don’t try to get ahead through deception. Do things God’s way.
KEY VERSE: 1 Chronicles 5:1 (Reuben’s consequence)
The oldest son of Israel was Reuben. But since he dishonored his father by sleeping with one of his father’s concubines, his birthright was given to the sons of his brother Joseph. For this reason, Reuben is not listed in the genealogical records as the firstborn son.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Even in the dark, I see all. You may fool those around you, but you’ll never deceive me. A half-truth is a whole lie, so why bother? Cutting corners to get ahead or saying what is only partly true will not benefit you. Live with integrity today. Be the same person in secret as you are in public. Don’t live with regret because you fail; confess the times you succeeded in wrongful ways.
I am not against you. I am for you and want to teach you to walk with me all day long. Living for me for an hour on Sunday or when you’re with Christian friends is a start, but I want more. I want you to be more concerned about my reputation than your own. Many people avoid church or thinking about me because of how my followers live. Don’t be part of the problem. I already love and forgive you, so give up your desire for approval from others. I’ve given you mine. Show the world what a faith-filled life looks like.
NEXT STEP
Make it your goal to say and do everything with integrity today. Don’t try to do it on your own, however. Ask God’s Spirit to empower you and give you the courage to confess your sin or apologize to others when you miss the mark.
LYRIC VIDEO