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It’s interesting to note that by the time Jacob wrestled with the Lord in Genesis 32, he already had obtained the two things he so desperately wanted: 1) the birthright from Esau that he secured by taking advantage of his brother’s situation, and 2) the blessing from his father that he managed to snare through deception. So it should come as no surprise that when he encountered the Lord a wrestling match took place.

Jacob’s future seemed set, but his life was missing the element worth more than all of his other gains: God’s favor. So Jacob seized the opportunity to have his life and his legacy altered by an encounter with the Lord! It’s the classic example of getting the things you wanted, but then realizing that those things aren’t what you needed.

Jacob’s life would never be the same. He would forever be marked by this all-night altercation. It was really no contest. God not only changed Jacob’s name; He helped to rebuild his reputation. Imagine for a moment that you have been known primarily as a “schemer,” but the Lord chooses to release through you a name (Israel) that will forever be identified with His chosen people!

Goal-driven or God-directed—you choose. Just know that God could show up at any moment, engaging you in a confrontation that leads to a new season in your life. He may also leave you marked forever—by His loving touch.

“For who has known the mind of the LORD? Or who has become His counselor?” -Romans 11:34 (NKJV)

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By: Glenn Burris Jr., general supervisor

served as the president of The Foursquare Church from 2009-2020.
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