Jacob’s life was characterized by deception and foolhardy ambition and he paid the price for it in having to flee his home out of fear for his life. Twenty years later when he returns, he encounters God in the form of a man who wrestles with him throughout the night. In the end, Jacob’s name (which means “deceiver”) is changed to Israel (which means “one who struggles with God”). In this encounter we discover how “wrestling with God” may not be a sign of spiritual immaturity or doubt, but actually a means to blessing and the very key to our identity.
Opening Hymn: If You But Trust in God to Guide You
Closing Doxology: Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow