Genesis 32:1-32

JACOB WRESTLES WITH GOD

Keywords 32:28

Then the man said, "Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men and have overcome."

 

1. Jacob prepares to meet Esau (1-21)

As Jacob approached Canaan, fear of Esau crept into his heart because of his

deception. Even God’s army could not subside his fear when Esau was coming

with 400 men. He divided his families in case of Esau’s attack. He then prayed,

"Save me. I am afraid of Esau. Keep your promise to make me prosper." Still,

he was anxious so he used many gifts to pacify Esau. Like Jacob, we also are

restless with fear, driven by Satan, until our past sins are forgiven.

 

2. Jacob becomes Israel (22-32)

Jacob was in the worst situation because of his sin. However, it was the Lord’s

opportunity to help him meet God personally through prayer, until daybreak. God

met him one on one, asking him his identity. Jacob honestly confessed he was

Jacob (a cheater). He asked to bless him. This blessing was beyond worldly fame,

love and wealth he already had. God then changed his name (Being) into Israel;

a spiritual man who struggles with God. Changing one’s inner ‘being’ more than

"having" is a true blessing. Jacob called the place Peniel “God’s face.” He met

God. All earthly fear was gone. Heavenly peace fi lled his anxious soul.

 

Prayer Lord, teach me to struggle with you in prayer until I know you more deeply

and my inner-being is changed.

One Word Your name is Israel