Genesis 33:9 (NKJV)

“But Esau said, ‘I have enough, my brother; keep what you have for yourself.’”

Esau was noble in that; he did not take from his brother when he had no need of it. Jacob had sent several gifts ahead to Esau as a pacifier, but Esau clearly wasn’t ready to accept what he didn’t need. It’s such a noble thing to say to your brother, “I have enough.”

We need to get to the point of turning down gifts from men, not because they are bad but because we honestly don’t need them. “Keep what you have for yourself” is a statement hard to find among God’s people today, but we must be more pragmatic and honest about our actual needs and means. If you have what you need, then stop receiving more from people. Simple!

It is covetousness that makes you keep asking for and keep receiving more, even when your needs have been met. This must be fought and controlled.

“Grant me a noble and contented heart Oh my Lord. Help me to distinguish myself by refusing to seek after more than what I need. May I practice the discipline of self-restraint, even in the place of plenty. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”