Day 3

Jacob recently completed extensive preparations, out of fear that his estranged brother might be planning an attack (Genesis 32:26). As it turns out, Jacob was attacked, but not by his brother, Esau. Instead, left alone in the night, Jacob has been attacked by a mysterious and unknown man. The two have engaged in real, physical combat, wrestling with each other until dawn. We will soon learn that this mysterious man is God in some kind of physical form (Genesis 32:28).

As their stalemate continues, the man suddenly puts Jacob's hip out of joint. The mention of "touch" is not meant to imply that this was some kind of miracle or other supernatural act. These men are grappling—a contest which by definition involves leverage and wrenching against the joints. Like an instructor who "cannot" defeat a student using self-restrained tactics, this man "cannot" defeat Jacob until deciding to strike a decisive—possibly permanent —blow. This, of course, means Jacob is now at a total disadvantage (Genesis 32:31).

Although clearly defeated, Jacob will not release the man. The man insists, wanting to leave since dawn has come. Jacob refuses. He recognizes this man has supernatural powers. In fact, he seems to understand that this is God or a representative of Him. Jacob insists that the man bless him. This request sets up one of the most profound moments of symbolism in the entire Old Testament. God changes his name to Israel and blesses him. As the sun rises, Jacob limps to rejoin his family and meet his brother.

God loves you at this very stage of your life. He has forgiven your sins and wants to meet you in the center. Jacob didn't care about the sins he committed or his past. He felt the presence of God and was determined to receive his blessing. He decided to not let go until he was blessed. Now this is Faith! Are you ready to receive God’s blessing? Start a conversation with Him today. Log on to YouTube and listen to a sermon. Put on a worship playlist and dive into the word of God. The best bookseller until this day is the Bible. You are more than your job. You are your best investment. Walk in Godfidence. God + Confidence.

Prayer of the Day: God, thank You for loving me. You see me as I truly am, and You still accept me! Today, I bring all my false labels and names to You. You know what I’ve been called, and what I’ve believed about myself. Please replace any false narratives with Your truth: that I am Your child, and greatly loved by You.