As we continue praying for our church and for the upcoming General Conference session, let us remember the life of Jacob.
He knew that God intended blessings. In fact, he was to receive the birthright blessing. But what he failed to gain by strategy and careful planning, God gave him in answer to prayer. This is what we need, the power of God in answer to our prayers. But to receive this, we must wrestle as Jacob wrestled with the attitude, “I will not let thee go, except thou bless me” (Gen. 32:26).
Ellen White tells us, “Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His experience testifies to the power of importunate prayer. It is now that we are to learn this lesson of prevailing prayer, of unyielding faith. The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual Christian are not those that are gained by talent or education, by wealth or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power“ (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 203).
The beautiful part of this story is that as a result of this “wrestling in prayer,” not only did Jacob get the blessing that he was seeking, but he got so much more. He got a new name “Israel” which means, “For as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed” (Gen. 32:28). Just imagine if we could wrestle with God and prevail? The good news is that we can! This blessing is not just for Jacob, but for each one of us!
Heart Prayer Challenge
Dear God, we are praying for our church. We are praying for wisdom for our leaders. Most of all, we are praying for the blessings of your Holy Spirit. We don’t know what we need most, but you do. Please work in our lives for your glory, Amen.
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