Considering God

Scripture: Genesis 26:34-35
When Esau was forty years old, he took as wives Judith the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Basemath the daughter of Elon the Hittite. And they were a grief of mind to Isaac and Rebekah.

Observation:
It is interesting that Esau's choice of wives grieved his parents. In earlier chapters when talking about marriages they were all arranged by the fathers. It doesn't say that Esau's was arranged.
I wonder if his family tried to lead him toward the right kind of woman and maybe he decided to follow his own choice. If this is the case then following his own choice shows me several things, 1. He dishonored his parents because he knew the custom of the day was that they were to guide in the selection of his wife. 2. He took two wives instead of one which wasn't God's plan.

Application:
There have been times that I have done things that God would not be happy with. Why did I do such things? I think it really comes down to selfishness. I want what I want and at the time didn't consider what God might think about it. You know what happens when I act this way? I get in all kinds of trouble. God is my Father and not considering what he desires for me is not wise. Stepping outside of God's plan even on small stuff is dangerous because Satan will be waiting for me, offering me all kinds of enticing incentives that take me further and further off the path that God has chosen for me. God can get me back on the right track but sometimes the road may be harder because of the choices I made.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, please help me to never wander away from your plan for my life. I love you and desire to live my life for you. Please guide and direct my paths, clear my heart and mind of selfishness and keep it turned toward You. In Jesus name Amen.