So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak.
— Genesis 32:24

Thought Of The Day...
Jacob was in a difficult position, and it was mostly his own fault. After deceiving his brother, Esau, Jacob had fled for his life to go and live with his Uncle Laban in Harran. Now, many years later, Jacob was on his way back home, and he was expecting to meet Esau again (see Genesis 27-31).
Jacob plotted and planned how he might smooth things over with Esau. Finally, in desperation and fear, he cried out to God, “Save me, I pray, from the hand of my brother Esau, for I am afraid he will come and attack” (Genesis 32:11).
The next night—as Jacob ­waited alone—a stranger came to wrestle with him till dawn. It left Jacob injured but blessed by God. God marked that event by giving Jacob a new name: Israel, meaning “he struggles with God.”
Are you wrestling with God and struggling with sin in your life? You may be asking, “Does God really care for me?” Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). God sees us; he sees our pride, our selfishness, and our lack of love for others. He also knows when we feel left out.
What’s more, God knows who we are in Christ. Through Jesus we are forgiven and reconciled with God. We are given new life and called to be faithful. Is God renewing your life today?

Prayer...
Heavenly Father, we come before you today in awe and wonder of your great love for us. We are reminded of your promise in Genesis 32:24 when you appeared to Jacob and wrestled with him throughout the night, showing that you are truly with us in our struggles.

We thank you, Lord, for the gift of your son, Jesus Christ, who came to earth and was given the name Immanuel, meaning “God with us.” We are comforted by the fact that you are always with us, guiding us, and never leaving our side.

Help us to live each day with the assurance that nothing can separate us from your love. No hardship, no trial, no pain, can ever separate us from your endless love and grace.

May we embrace your presence in our lives and trust in your perfect plan for us. Give us the strength and courage to face each day knowing that you are with us every step of the way.

Thank you, Lord, for your unfailing love and faithfulness. We pray that you will continue to be with us and guide us as we journey through this life. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.