May 11

Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” — Gen 32:26 BSB

It is encouraging for the Lord’s people, as they face similar trials, exercises, and distresses to Jacob’s, to see the blessed outcome of Jacob’s wrestling with the angel. He crossed the ford of Jabbok in weakness but crossed back in strength. He left his family, wrestling alone as a fainting Jacob, but returned to them as a prevailing Israel. He went to the Lord in a state of doubt and fear, terrified that he and his family would be wiped out, but he returned with the Lord’s blessing and the light of His countenance shining on him.

This account is recorded for the instruction and encouragement of all the Lord’s people. Don’t we also face similar difficulties and necessities? Doesn’t the Lord stir up the same faith in our hearts to lay hold of Him, the same persistence to keep hold of Him? And will the Lord, who gave Jacob such a gracious deliverance, not do the same for us? Would He record this event in Scripture to edify and instruct His people throughout the ages, yet hear Jacob and not hear us? To believe that is an insult to the compassionate “Man of Sorrows” and a treasonous thought toward the Majesty of heaven. If we, as children of God, come to Him in the same way as Jacob, we will receive the same blessing.