After years of competing and conniving for his family’s blessing, Jacob had a life-changing encounter with God that left him with new dependence on the Lord and a new name. With a softened heart, he went to meet Esau, faced his past, and slowly made his way home.
Before you begin
Ask the Lord to give you a fresh sense of wonder as you read His Word. Pray for understanding and for an open, humble, obedient heart to receive what He wants to say to you.
Read
Review
Write a sentence or two about what you've just read. This could be a summary of the passage or an observation or highlight that stood out to you.
Reflect
Where in your life story has God used your weakness to teach you a greater dependence on Him?
"In the stillness of that long night, Jacob wrestled for all he was worth, until finally exhausted, he realized he would never be able to control God. His will broken, his hip out of joint, his name changed, Jacob emerged from that divine encounter a new man." —Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth1
Respond
Write a short prayer, based on today’s reading. This could include praise, gratitude, personal confession, agreement with the truth, or a request for yourself or someone else.
1A Place of Quiet Rest, p. 72
Takeaway Thought
What key verse or insight will you take with you into your day?