IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

Daily Bread

Key Verse: 32:28

First, Jacob prepares to meet Esau (1-21). When Jacob enters Canaan, the angels of God meet him, assuring him that God is with him. Now that he has returned home, Jacob has to resolve his problem with his brother Esau and restore his relationship. When he hears that Esau is coming with 400 men, terror strikes his heart. In great fear, he cries out to God, claims God's promises and grace, and pleads for salvation. Jacob then sends many generous gifts ahead of him to appease Esau.

Second, Jacob's new name is Israel (22-32). That sleepless night Jacob sent his family and belongings across the river. When he was alone, a man wrestled with him until daybreak, and the man could not overpower him. But he gave Jacob a hip injury -- a reminder of this pivotal life event. Before letting him go, Jacob wanted his blessing. Though Jacob had great blessings, he still needed something. The man blessed him with a new name, Israel. Jacob needed more than anything to be changed from a man who struggled with men to one who struggles with God. Jacob suddenly realized the man was God and was overwhelmed with God's mercy.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your mercy to change me to be a new person. Help me to struggle with you.

One Word: Blessed by God to be a new person