I woke very early this morning looking forward to reading the encouraging story of Joseph’s faithfulness during his slavery in Egypt and I must confess I was somewhat disappointed when I opened Genesis chapter 38 and read its contents!

Now reality has dawned as I remember that there is more to life than the pleasant chapters!

Genesis 38 deals with the sordid realities of the fallen human nature. It is a somewhat compressed story of how Judah chooses as his wife the daughter of a Canaanite man called Shua. Her name is not mentioned but Judah is soon the father of three sons: Er, Onan and Shelar.

As his sons grow, Judah finds a wife called Tamar for Er, his firstborn but Er, a wicked man, dies and according to the custom, she is given to the next brother, Onan as wife. He also dies and so Judah tells Tamar to return to her father’s house until the youngest son is old enough to marry her.

Fearing that the same fate awaits his son Shelar, Judah reneges on his promise and so Tamar schemes to get justice from him. Hearing that he will be passing her way, she dresses as a prostitute, places a veil over her face and sits by the way in a deserted spot. Soon he falls into her trap. Taking as a pledge of payment his ring, belt and staff she retreats to her home and waits.

Three months later he learns that she is “with child through whoredom” and demands that she be burned!!  As Tamah confronts him with the evidence that he is the father of her unborn children (twins) Judah acknowledges his guilt and presumably, justice is done.

So what do we conclude from this sad, sad story?

Firstly, since sin entered this world by the decision made by Adam to disbelieve God, ALL HAVE SINNED. (Romans 3:23)  Sin is the default setting of the human mind and apart from the righteousness that Jesus imputes and imparts to us, we have no hope of doing what is pleasing to God or finding salvation! Watch how a one year old reacts when a toy is grabbed by a sibling and you will see the carnal nature at work!

Secondly, Judah remained an integral part of the nation of Israel! In fact, Jesus is called: “The Lion of the tribe of Judah!”  Obviously, there is grace that is extended by God to those who fall but acknowledge their guilt and seek His forgiveness!

Thirdly, Grace is dangerous! It is easy to allow the carnal nature to “trade” on God’s generosity, but God is not fooled.

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” (Galatians 6:7-9)

Have a great day!