Talk about persistence! Jacob wrestled with the Angel of the Lord all night refusing to let Him go without getting the blessing he knew he was entitled too. What a powerful testament. As believers we have to be willing to wrestle with God through our prayers, day and night, until we see the manifestation of His promises in our lives. Far too often, we’re content with speaking a prayer one time and going on about our business. While some prayers need only be spoken once, there are others that require a more persistent approach. Sometimes, we have to pray about a particular situation and refuse to stop until something changes.
Remember Blind Bartimaeus? He cried out to Jesus for mercy and healing. When the people around him, heard him they became annoyed and told him to shut up. He didn’t. Instead, he yelled louder “Son of David, have mercy on me.” I suspect that somewhere on the inside of him, Bartimaeus knew this might be his only chance at receiving his sight. He refused to give up despite what the people were telling him. As a result, Jesus’ response was tell the man to come here. Not only did Bartimaeus receive his sight, the bible says that he followed Jesus on the road.
Some things, blessings and promises require us to be persistent. We cannot be swayed by popular opinion. Instead, we must approach God boldly expecting Him to hear our prayers and answer us. This was Jacob’s stance. He refused to let the Angel of the Lord go until a blessing was released in his life. Would Jacob have gotten the blessing if he hadn’t wrestled the Angel of the Lord? Maybe. Maybe not. The question is do you want to risk it? Jacob obviously didn’t.
In reading about Jacob, you get a sense that Jacob understood the meaning of prevail. He knew what it meant to be determined about something and refuse to give up. I think this delights God. I think God loves when we are persistent and determined. Why else would God say do not grow weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we don’t lose heart. Wow. God is literally saying if you hang in there, keep praying and keep believing; you will have the blessing when it’s the right time.
God wants you to wrestle with Him through your prayers. God is delighted when we persevere—it pays off. So, don’t be discouraged. Don’t give up on your dreams. Don’t throw in the towel. You too can receive the blessing from the Lord if you faint not! Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan. They pray 5 times a day expecting God to meet them throughout the day. Christians should do the same. God is waiting for you!
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