In order for Jacob to become Israel it requires him to face his brother. John wrote, "If anyone says, 'I love God,' and hates his brother is a liar." (1 John 4:20) The meeting is not only cordial but is a reconciliation of brothers. Families, church members and everyone else needs to remember that God desires us to love one another. Too much time is spent holding grudges and not getting along. When we are reconciled to God then it means that we are about being reconciled to others and to help them be reconciled as well.
At the end of the chapter Jacob refers to God as El Elohe Israel or "Mighty is the God of Israel." God has done mighty things for Jacob. He has given him a large family. He has given him lots of possessions. He has reconciled him to his brother. Jacob has now transformed into Israel. He now understands that "God rules." There does seem to be those times in all of our lives that we have a choice to completely trust in God or not.
"Father, You are El Elohe. You are mighty! Let us put our complete trust in You. I pray this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen."
About Me
- Robert and Ray Miller
- Robert is the pastor of First Baptist Texas City, Tx. And Ray is the pastor of First Baptist Mertens, Tx. Robert brings over 30 years of biblical study as a pastor. Ray brings a younger perspective to the Bible and also a command of the original languages. Our greatest passion is to see lives changed through the good news of Jesus Christ.
1 comment:
Oh, my prayer today is that as God was mighty to Israel, He will be El Elohe Betty.
God loves me so much and had blessed me so mightly, I can never thank Him enough.
I especially thank Him for His Word and how it continually blesses my soul.
The commentary about unity is so relevant. We are commanded to go to our brothers and sisters and settle anything between us before we even take communion. How can God who dwells within me be at odds with one in whom He also dwells. May it never be so.
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