Bible Studies

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Struggling with God
Jacob had been caught up in conflict a long time; it started when he was in the womb with Esau. It continued with Laban’s manipulations and jealous wives, and now a battle with Esau looked imminent. “If man is against me, God at least will give me peace” he might have said. But no, there was one more struggle, and that with a representative of God. Jacob was allowed what he thought was a draw, and then God applied the last stroke to Jacob’s hip. Jacob emerged with a new name which reflected not the draw but the struggle. Jacob was far from perfected, but he knew the value of a blessing and wouldn’t give up without it.
Many believers trace the path of Jacob: years of struggle, wanting their own way, seeking their own identity, and grasping for material things and recognition, with too little time for God. But often, when the ‘Esau’ of their lives approaches and darkness falls, the struggle appears to be with ‘Esau’ but it is really with God. “Why me?” “Am I such a bad person?” “God, if you take this away I promise to _______” Now at last God has your attention, so hang on, wrestle with His truth, and ask for His blessings. Know that there is a reason for these troubles. The night may be far longer you hoped, but you will emerge with a new identity and a new direction.

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