“And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel, for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men and has prevailed†(Genesis 32:28).
Jacob had tricked his brother Esau out of his birthright. His deception led him to stay on the run so Esau would not find and kill him. Along the way, Jacob engaged in an overnight wrestling match with a messenger of God. Isn’t it amazing the lengths God goes to get one’s attention? In spite of needing a thigh replacement, Jacob prevailed. Jacob refused to give up without a fight. Sometimes when God is dealing with us, we give up too easy. Jacob was determined he was going to come out of all this with a blessing. We need that same kind of determination to receive a blessing or answer from God. It is worth the “fight.â€
Jacob was told his new name would be “Israel.†He would continue to carry out the covenant first made with Abraham. What a blessed privilege Jacob was given in spite of his past! He was going to be blessed so he could bless others. It works the same way for us today. You may feel there is something in your past that may hinder you from receiving and being a blessing. Cast this burden upon Jesus and, if necessary, pray throughout the night. The next day you may feel you’ve “wrestled for a blessing,†but, like “Israel,†you will prevail.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: On this Memorial Day, pause and pray for our country and remember the families of those who have lost loved ones while fighting for our freedom.
