Reading the OT we see the physical speaking to the spiritual for us as the NT church. Jacob and Esau are a picture of the spirit and the flesh. Esau sold his birthright. Esau made the decision to marry foreign wives because it would upset his father. Many other times Esau made decisions upon his flesh. We too, must choose to live by the Spirit or the flesh!
"These are the chiefs of the sons of Esau. The sons of Eliphaz, the firstborn of Esau, are chief Teman, chief Omar, chief Zepho, chief Kenaz, chief Korah, chief Gatam, chief Amalek. These are the chiefs descended from Eliphaz in the land of Edom; these are the sons of Adah." Gen 36:15-16
This is the first time "chief" (or "duke" in KJV) is mentioned in the Bible. The Edomites were the only ones who used this title. They led differently than other nations. The Edomites would eventually have conflict with Israel throughout history.
We must choose to live according to the flesh or live according to the Spirit each day. We've been given this choice because of our redemption in Christ. Our redemption gives us a choice to live for Jesus each day. What will you choose? Walk according to the Spirit (Gal 5:22).
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.