Daily Devotional – Wednesday, March 24, 2021
But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”
Genesis 32:26 (NIV)
Jacob’s life was characterized by deceit and opportunism. Ultimately, he would have to humble himself for God to use him and make him great.
At birth, Jacob was holding his brother’s heel, hence the nickname, ‘supplanter’. Later, with the assistance of his mother, he stole Esau’s birthright. Afterwards, his deceit (and hard work) separated him from his uncle, Laban.
As he fled from the threatening Laban, Jacob risked being attacked by Esau. Jacob’s sins were catching up with him.
That night, as he agonized about meeting Esau, Jacob was forced to wrestle with God’s angel the whole night. God’s messenger, on realizing Jacob was prevailing, touched the ageing man’s hip, thus disabling him.
Finally, the crafty guy was cornered. In his condition, he could not face Esau and prevail. Jacob “…wept and begged…” for God’s favour (Hosea 12:4). He had to submit to God. His intelligence, strength and skills were of no help.
In his desperation, he pleaded, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” Only God’s blessings mattered now.
God signified he had forgiven Jacob by giving him a new name – Israel – ‘the one who struggles with God.’ Emptied of his selfishness and self-reliance, he was ready to be used by God.
You, too, will wrestle with God often, as He seeks to purge sin and selfishness out of you. He wants to use you but he must first reveal to you how helpless you are without Him.
Today, humbly and desperately seek for the blessing of God’s forgiveness and a second chance to serve Him.
Father, I will not let you go unless you bless me.
Amen my brother,you are a blessing with the work that you do.may God bless you
Thank you, sister, for encouraging me. Blessings.
Jacob continued this wrestling match all night just to be blessed. He was persistent. God encourages persistence in all areas of our lives, including the spiritual. Where in your spiritual life do you need more persistence?
Strong characters develops as you struggle through tough conditions.
Thank you, Pastor for your value-addition to this devotional. God bless you always.
Let us be like Jacob and faithfuly tell God that I cannot leaveyou before you bless me
Hallelujah, Elder. That should be the prayer of every Christian.
Lord I’ll not let you go unless you bless me
Amen, Anyango. That is the type of faith that prevails.
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