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Because of God’s guidance, Jacob had gained wealth even when Laban continued to put obstacles in his way. Reading in Genesis 32, God now sends angels to help Jacob as he boldly steps ahead on the journey back to his homeland in Canaan.

Jacob wants to make things right with his brother Esau so he sends messengers ahead to let it be known to Esau that he wanted to reconcile. The messengers returned with news that Esau was coming to meet Jacob along with four hundred men (v. 6). This distressed Jacob because he feared Esau would be carrying out revenge for tricking their father into receiving his blessing.

Jacob went to the Lord in prayer; pleading for protection. Then Jacob took further action by selecting a significant number of cattle, sheep, goats, rams, camels, and donkeys as gifts for Esau.

Earlier in life, Jacob had seen the ladder at Bethel. Now we are told in this passage that he wrestles a man during the night while he was alone on the other side of the ford of the Jabbok. Who is this man that Jacob wrestles with? Many Bible commentators identify the man as Christ.

Along his spiritual journey, Jacob continues to learn things about himself and about God. He has been a man of passion and initiative; been blessed with wealth and a family but he realizes that only God can give holiness. We can learn the same lesson along our spiritual journey and gain full spiritual maturity.

This day with God, refuse to sit back in mediocrity. Instead, be who God has made you to be. Get ready for the challenge of each day by going to the ONE who created it all and passionately stirring each other up to boldly step ahead.