The theme of choosing between two sons is a recurring motif in the Bible, illustrating the sovereignty of God in His election and the unfolding of His divine purposes. This theme is evident in several key narratives, each highlighting different aspects of God's covenantal promises and human responses to His will.

1. Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:1-16):
The first instance of choosing between two sons occurs with Cain and Abel, the sons of Adam and Eve. Abel, a keeper of sheep, offered a more acceptable sacrifice to the Lord than Cain, a tiller of the ground. "And the LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but He had no regard for Cain and his offering" (Genesis 4:4-5). This choice underscores the importance of faith and righteousness, as Abel's offering was made in faith (Hebrews 11:4). Cain's subsequent jealousy and murder of Abel reveal the destructive nature of sin and the consequences of rejecting God's ways.

2. Isaac and Ishmael (Genesis 16-21):
The narrative of Isaac and Ishmael, the sons of Abraham, further develops the theme of divine election. Ishmael, born to Hagar, was Abraham's firstborn, yet God chose Isaac, the son of Sarah, to be the child of promise. "But God said to Abraham, 'Do not be distressed about the boy and your maidservant. Listen to everything Sarah tells you, for through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned'" (Genesis 21:12). This choice emphasizes God's sovereign will in establishing His covenant and the fulfillment of His promises through Isaac, the child of promise.

3. Jacob and Esau (Genesis 25-27):
The account of Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah, illustrates God's sovereign choice before their birth. "Yet before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad, in order that God's purpose in election might stand, not by works but by Him who calls, she was told, 'The older will serve the younger'" (Romans 9:11-12). Jacob, though the younger, was chosen to carry on the Abrahamic covenant, highlighting God's prerogative in election and His ability to work through human weakness and imperfection.

4. Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 37-50):
Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, was chosen by God to preserve the family of Israel during a time of famine. Despite being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, Joseph rose to prominence in Egypt. His account demonstrates God's providential care and the fulfillment of His promises despite human sinfulness. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20). Joseph's selection underscores the theme of redemption and God's ability to bring good out of evil.

5. David and His Brothers (1 Samuel 16):
The choice of David, the youngest son of Jesse, to be king over Israel is another example of God's unexpected election. While Samuel initially considered David's older brothers, God instructed him, "Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). David's anointing as king highlights God's focus on the heart and His ability to raise up leaders according to His purposes.

These narratives collectively illustrate the biblical principle that God's choices often defy human expectations and are based on His sovereign will and purposes. Through these accounts, the Bible reveals the unfolding of God's redemptive plan and His faithfulness to His covenant promises.