Relying on natural advantages alone does not guarantee a triumphant life. I drew this conclusion after watching a playlet by the drama group of one of our branch churches. The central character was the younger of two brothers. The young man was chosen by the oracle to be the next king of their community, while the older one was to be a never-do-well. On hearing this, the young man threw caution into the wind. Ever before his coronation, he demanded the honour of a king from people. He promised to make a fellow of his a prime minister. He did other ridiculous things like trespassing into the farm of a helpless man; as well as putting a young lady in the family way. He simply became presumptuous. Meanwhile, the older brother applied himself to duty and became successful. On the day of coronation the young man appeared with great pomp; but the verdict came from the same oracle that he was not worthy. The crown eventually went to his older brother who had proved himself diligent.

The lesson of this play is quite profound. We are confronted with a reality of Scripture, that crowns can change hands. This is the lesson that Jesus sent to the Church at Philadelphia. They were faithful, already doing well; with a crown in view. Jesus enjoined them to keep at it, so that the crown would not go to another. In walking with God we must realize that His promises cannot be taken for granted; we need to always keep our own side of the deal. In our text, though the advantage of birthright was given to the sons of Joseph, it was not put to good use. Judah who applied himself to the demands of greatness became the leader. Responsibility is the price of greatness.