Jacob's Crossing Outcome

One of my all time favorite biblical characters is Jacob; perhaps it is because I am also a twin---but I suspect it is because I am a dreamer and schemer. I return often to Jacob's WWF wrestling match with God found in Genesis 32. A few weeks ago during some time in the Word while preparing for a trip to Romania, I again reviewed the story. As a "bottom-line" sort, I jotted some thoughts about Jacob's WWF match outcome:

First, I like the fact that God gave Jacob a new name (Gen 32:28); he became known as Israel, or in Hebrew, "one who strugges with God." I don't know about you...but I've had my own struggles with God---haven't you?

Second, I really appreciate it that Jacob (now Israel) found a new direction--he was going to cross the Jabbok and no longer fear facing his brother. Since Rick Warren's book Purpose Driven Life became so popular, much has been written about discovering one's unique purpose for serving God...for placing Jehovah first in one's life...for being open to expanding one's territory (Prayer of Jabez), etc. As one well past half-time in my life and ministry, I often muse about legacy making...making a difference, so, "A New Direction makes sense to me." How about you?

It also is clear to me, that like Jacob, a new direction brings A New Reverence toward our Holy God. (Gen 3:30). "So Jacob called this place Peniel, saying It is because I saw God face to ace yet my life was spared". I can remember clearly the times that God spoke to me directly....can you?

Finally, we always need to be reminded of this renewed commitment, don't we? Jacob was no different than you or I. (Gen 32:31) Yes, Lord God bring me back to this place Peniel...return us often to the mountain.

Selah.