Fresh Bread March 10: Are You A God Wrestler?

Monday, March 10, 2008

But Jacob stayed behind by himself, and an Angel WRESTLED with him until daybreak. When the Angel saw that he couldn’t get the best of Jacob as they wrestled … The Angel said, “Let me go; it’s daybreak.” Jacob said, “I’m not letting you go ’til you bless me.” The Angel said, “What’s your name?” He answered, “Jacob.” The Angel said, “…No longer. Your name is no longer Jacob. From now on it’s Israel (God-Wrestler); you’ve wrestled with God and you’ve come through (you’ve won).” (Genesis 32:24-28, Message Bible)

One of the definitions for the word “WRESTLE” is the word “Struggle”. There are three definitions for this word which left an impression on me: (1) To make a strenuous effort. (2) To progress with difficulty. (3) To contend for in the area of one’s faith (Jude verse 3). Jacob, your name is now Israel because you:

• Made a strenuous effort with regards to your relationship with God.
• Progressed but with difficulties in your relationship with God.
• Contended and competed for a greater faith in God. And you’ve won!