The birthright which he had so carelessly bartered he could not now regain. He found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. Esau was not shut out from the privilege of seeking God's favor by repentance, but he could find no means of recovering the birthright. He sorrowed because of the results of his sin, but not for the sin itself. He represents those who lightly value the redemption purchased for them by Christ, and are ready to sacrifice their heirship to heaven for the perishable things of earth.
Multitudes live for the present, with no thought or care for the future.
How many, even of professed Christians, cling to indulgences that are injurious to health and that benumb the sensibilities of the soul. When the duty is presented of cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, they are offended. They see that they cannot retain these hurtful gratifications and yet secure heaven, and they conclude that since the way to eternal life is so strait, they will no longer walk therein. Multitudes are selling their birthright for sensual indulgence. As Esau awoke to see the folly of his rash exchange when it was too late to recover his loss, so it will be in the day of God with those who have bartered their heirship to heaven for selfish gratifications.