Today’s Key Scripture

“I will not let You go unless You bless me!”

— Genesis 32:26

If you want to intensify your prayer life, follow the example of Jacob. Surrounded by a cacophony of people and an impending confrontation with his brother, Esau, he withdrew to a quiet place to talk with God. Scripture records that “Jacob was left alone” (Genesis 32:24).

He separated his group into two companies or bands numbering 600 each—that’s 1,200 people. Quite a throng! And he knew that if he was going to have victory, he’d have to get away from all of these people and pray. That’s exactly what he did!

Jacob needed a miracle. His 1,200 people were not trained warriors and were no match for Esau’s 400 battle-hardened soldiers.

All alone, throughout the night Jacob wrestled with an angel, an actual physical encounter that resulted in an injury: “The socket of Jacob’s hip was out of joint as He wrestled with him” (Genesis 32:25).

During the struggle the angel said, “‘Let Me go, for the day breaks.’ But he said, ‘I will not let You go unless You bless me!’” (Genesis 32:26).

The story of Jacob is a great example of persistence, to the point that he became the father of the twelve tribes of the nation of Israel!

 

A Prayer for Today

Dear heavenly Father, I stand ardently on Your promises. Thank You for promising that if I draw near to You, You will draw near to me. Help me cherish communion with You, no matter what is going on in my life. I desire You above all. I’m so grateful that You are working on my behalf, even when I don’t see what is taking place spiritually. I ask that You will increase my passion for spending even more time with You. Help me stay where You want me to be and depend upon Your promises. I pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.

 

*All references NKJV unless otherwise noted.