Bibledoorajar reflects on a Name

Jacob wrestled with the Angel of the Lord. At first, it looked as if he was prevailing, but then Jacob realized he was not and, as he lost natural strength, he clung to the Angel. The Angel could have thrown him off but Jacob was allowed to cling to Him. At that point, when all his natural strength was subdued, God told Jacob that He was giving him a new name. Instead of Jacob, the Supplanter, one who can best life by force or treachery, he would be known as Israel, Prince of God, one who walks in the strength of God. At Peniel (face of God), God showed Jacob what He had not shown him before. He showed him His love reflected in His strength. God was pleased that Jacob had shown his strength to both God and man and had prevailed. Jacob wanted to know His Name, but God simply answered, "Why are you asking My Name?" But there in that place face to face with God, Jacob was blessed.

Jacob had been touched by the Hand of God and though he wiggled and squirmed, he eventually gave in and let God love him. Isn't that what we all have to do on our journey to our final habitation? As the song says, "shackled by a heavy burden, 'neath a load of guilt and shame, Then the hand of Jesus touched, And now I am no longer the same. He touched me, oh, He touched and oh, the JOY that floods my soul..."

At this meeting with God, here is what the scripture says:

    "Jacob called the place Piniel, 'because I have seen God face to face, yet my life is spared.' As the sun rose upon him he went on past Piniel limping at the hip. This is why, to this day, the people of Israel do not eat the thigh muscle that passes along the hip socket--because the man struck Jacob's hip at its socket (Genesis 32:30 ff)." Jacob was limping and knew he could not be a Prince of God without His help but there was joy now in his heart.

Jews who remain kosher reflect the act of meeting God by observing this food restraint. Believers, who have been touched by Jesus know they cannot be a joyful servant of God who honors Him without His help. But now, we know just how much He wants to bless and help us as we stay on the path. He's wonderful!