Have you ever felt like you were wrestling with God—struggling to trust Him, clinging to control, or striving to make things work in your own strength? Jacob’s story in Genesis 32 is a powerful reminder that God meets us in our struggles, not to defeat us, but to transform us. In this sermon, we explore Jacob’s pivotal encounter with God at the Jabbok River—a night of wrestling that changed his identity forever. Once a deceiver and self-reliant schemer, Jacob emerges as Israel, a man marked not by striving, but by surrender. His story reveals a profound truth: God’s greatest work begins when our striving ends.

Reflection questions based on your sermon “Wrestling with God” (Genesis 32: 22-28)
1. Have you ever felt like you were wrestling with God? What was the situation, and what was the outcome?
2. In what areas of your life are you still relying on your own strength rather than trusting in God? How can you cultivate a deeper dependence on God rather than relying on your own wisdom and abilities
3. Jacob’s limp was a lasting reminder of his encounter with God. Have there been moments in your life where God has left a “mark” on you, reminding you of His work in your life?
4. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel, signifying transformation. How has encountering Jesus changed your identity and the way you see yourself? Where do you sense God calling you to deeper transformation?
5. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:17, ‘If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!’ How do you actively live into your new identity in Christ? How have you experienced God shaping your heart and renewing your mind over time?

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that, like Jacob, I often wrestle with You—struggling to trust, clinging to control, and striving in my own strength. Lord, I confess the areas where I have resisted Your leading. I lay before You my fears, my need for control, and the burdens I carry. Teach me to surrender, not out of defeat, but out of trust—knowing that Your plans are always greater than my striving. Father, just as You gave Jacob a new name and a new identity, remind me of who I am in Christ. Help me to let go of my past mistakes and old patterns, stepping fully into the life You have called me to. When I feel weak, remind me that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. When I’m tempted to strive, draw me into deeper trust. And when I face uncertainty, help me to rest in the truth that You are always with me. May I walk forward, even if with a limp, knowing that I have been forever changed by Your presence. Help me to live as a new creation in Christ, embracing the fullness of the identity You have given me. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.