Father Jacob
“ So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak.”
Genesis 32:24 (NIV)
We cannot have a true relationship with someone unless we are willing to work through difficult moments. If, at the first sign of conflict, someone gives up or leaves the friendship, we would begin to question how deep their commitment was in the first place. This is because we all know real relationships require work and effort. Great successes aren’t created overnight. Amazing books cannot be written in a single day. And true, deep, and authentic friendships aren’t synthesized in a couple of meetings. It takes a journey to build and establish our deepest bonds.
Taking a look at our biblical fathers, we come to Father Jacob, the son of Isaac. Jacob was not a fighter. By all accounts, he seems much more of a schemer and backstabber. His name in Hebrew roughly translates as “he grasps the heel,” an idiom meaning “deceiver.” Not very flattering language for someone who is supposed to be the heir of the promises of God.
But Jacob learns discipline and perseverance in his life. Jacob works for his bride for 14 years and is deceived along the way. There must have been some moments of his life if he was questioning his decision, or even doubting God. As believers, we face this throughout our life. Questioning if what we are doing is worth it. Having doubts on the faithfulness of God and where he is calling us to.
When these giant problems began to fight Jacob, he fought back. Even more, on top of that, he wrestled with God. Literally. And the bold and beautiful thing is that according to Genesis 32:26 (NIV), Jacob wouldn’t let go until he was blessed. “Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”” And Jacob was blessed for his boldness, perseverance, and determination. His name was changed to represent the new nation God was creating… Israel, which also means “he struggles with God”
We have an open invitation to take our issues to God, even if we feel He is the issue. He is big enough and strong enough to take our complaints. But when we do, let’s keep the same mindset that Jacob had. We aren’t looking to accuse or condemn the most high… we need to be looking for the blessing, the answer, or the change that needs to take place. Keep in mind too, when we wrestle with God, we may walk away with a limp.
Another important part of your daily devotional is spending time with God in prayer. The Woodlands Church Prayer Board lists prayer requests submitted by our members and provides a way to send them some encouragement by using a button on the page to let them know that you prayed for them. Whether you use the Prayer Board, or pray from your heart, the goal is to build the habit of incorporating prayer into your quiet time.
Need prayer yourself? Let us know by submitting a prayer request on the Woodlands Church Prayer Board.