Today’s Bible reading

After he had sent his family and servants across the stream, he sent over all his possessions. So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man. Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.”

But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” The man asked him, “What is your name?” “Jacob,” he answered. Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.”

Jacob said, “Please tell me your name.” But he replied, “Why do you ask my name?” Then he blessed him there. — Genesis 32:22-32

More thoughts for meditation

Whether you ever physically wrestled with someone or not, I think we can all relate to this story. Just like Jacob, we often find ourselves asking questions like: Who are you, God? How could you let this happen? Who am I? What is the meaning of it all?

We can find comfort knowing that God is with us in that struggle. In fact, God calls us to be persistent in our pursuit of them. Furthermore, if we abide in God and in the word, our desires will be fulfilled. (John 15:7) Although God’s answer to prayer may not always look like what we expect! In this story, God left Jacob with a blessing and a new identity. I bet Jacob wasn’t expecting a new name after a sweaty, night long wrestling match! 

Suggestions for action

Are you wrestling with God right now? Trying to understand God’s will, or struggling with something going on in your life? From our limited perspective, thing’s may often seem unfair or hopeless. 

Consider looking from God’s perspective. Embrace the struggle. Find comfort knowing God is with you. Abide in God, remain with Christ, and be open to receiving what they have for you.