A Relentless Pursuit
Throughout both the Old & New Testament we read of instances where God reveals Himself in a specific, but mysterious manner. The story of Jacob and the all night wrestling match is no different. While there are variations of opinions of who the “man” was as specified in Genesis 32:24, the consensus, based on the original Hebrew writings, is the man was of some form of Deity, an angel, or a manifestation of an angel. But that isn’t the lesson here. From various commentary, it is revealed that Jacob and “the man” engaged in a quick confrontation, stirring up dust, wrestling without either giving in. It doesn’t say Jacob stopped to identify who the man was, and, in fact, it says the man came to Jacob’s camp, indicating “the man” was the aggressor.
This man who came to Jacob’s camp did not clearly identify himself, but he left Jacob with a blessing. He didn’t leave Jacob with a blessing for any other reason than Jacob was relentless in his fight. We have “Americanized” Christianity to the point that is is almost limited to a one hour service on Sunday, a prayer on Wednesday, and we have all but removed the power and Presence from the purpose of the church. An awakening begins with the individual, in the heart. It wasn’t Jacob and his army against this man in Jacob’s camp. It was one-on-one. It’s time we get one-on-one with God at the altar of repentance, which, I know, is not a popular discussion topic. We must resolve to stay in the fight until “the man” grants us the blessing and we walk away victorious and changed, even if it means we leave changed.
Heavenly Father, May I have the tenacity and relentless passion to pursue You for who You are, not for what You can do or what You can give. May I pursue You with a fiery passion, both day and night, and be focused and intense in my desire for relationship with You. Restore the flame of passion for my knowledge and understanding of Your word. Clean my heart, my hands, and renew my mind as I study Your word. Make clear the path to You and I will pursue You and I know You will do a marvelous work in my life and community. -Amen
This left Jacob all alone in the camp, and a man came and wrestled with him until the dawn began to break.
Genesis 32:24 NLT
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