Through the Bible: GenesisSample

A New Name

Then he said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.”

Genesis 32:28 

And God said to him, “Your name is Jacob; no longer shall your name be called Jacob, but Israel shall be your name.” So he called his name Israel.

Genesis 35:10  

Jacob, a fundamental character in the Old Testament, is far from a heroic figure. His life, full of weaknesses, deceptions and struggles, is intensely human. His birth name means 'supplanter' in Hebrew and his manipulative character was obvious in many dealings.

Yet, chapter 32 to 35 also shows us a rare quality of Jacob – his almost reckless grip of God. Jacob in all ways was an imperfect man, but he knew God is good; he came face to face with Him in every fear or failure and refused to let go of His blessings. 

In his perseverance and wrestle with God, he received a new name – a name that is no longer associated with deception and shame but a name of which a nation, a company of nations, and kings will come from. 

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for removing our unworthiness, sins and shame. We give You praise for Your unfailing love, for giving us a new identity and clothing us in Your Glory. Help us to hold onto You even in the darkest wrestle so that we may taste the sweetness of Your morning dew. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.