Devotion:
Read Genesis 32:22-28.
Jacob had spent many years on the run after tricking his brother Esau and cheating him out of his blessing. Jacob had lived up to the meaning of his name: “grabber” or “deceiver.” After years of living apart, Jacob decides to return to his home hoping to make peace with his brother, but he was afraid that Esau would attack him. One night on the journey, he sends everyone ahead of him while he stays behind. A stranger visits Jacob and begins to wrestle him. At some point during this contest Jacob realizes that he is wrestling God. And when God decides it’s time to end the match, he dislocated Jacob’s hip and demands to be released. In his pain Jacob replies, “I will not let you go unless you bless me” (Genesis 32:26). This response clearly pleases God, who blesses Jacob and changes his name to Israel meaning “strives with God.”
Jacob began the night dreading Esau’s arrival and full of fear and worry. Jacob was stewing in his own anxiety over Esau and the entourage he was bringing, when God showed up. But he ended the night of struggle with God’s blessing and a renewed faith.The wrestling forced Jacob to focus on God, the answer to his fear and anxiety.
In Jacob’s story we can easily recognize our individual struggles: fears, loneliness, vulnerabilities, feelings of powerlessness, exhaustion, and relentless pain. Jacob teaches us to confront our failures, weaknesses, pain, and sin. And then turn them over to God. Spiritual growth often involves struggle and pain, but God will see us through and bless us.
Personal Worship Option:
What do you need from God? Don't be afraid to wrestle God in prayer. Tell him of your worries. He’ll lead you into peace and bless you.
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